Metamorphosis or The Golden Ass

The Metamorphosis, also known as The Golden Ass, is a novel by Lucius Apuleius written in the 2nd century AD. It is notable for being one of the few surviving complete novels from the Ancient World and the only fully preserved work of Roman literature. The story follows a man transformed into a donkey who embarks on various adventures in his quest to regain his human form, featuring the famous episode of Cupid and Psyche. The novel is recognized as a precursor to the picaresque genre, combining humor, energetic storytelling, and poetic elements.