Does anyone know if there is a Latin/English interlinear version of The Golden Ass by Apuleius? Can anyone recommend a modern English translation of this novel?
Also, what is the best English translation of Cupid and Psyche?
Thanks,
Bob
This isn’t really going to help you, but Sarah Ruden (translator of Lysistrata, the Homeric Hymns and, forthcoming, the Aeneid) is currently working on a modern translation of The Golden Ass. So, if you’re willing to wait a year or two…
-David
…surely a s s shouldn’t be censored by the forum? Is it just my computer that’s switching the s’s for asterisks?
I guess we could say asinus aureus instead.
David
Actually the Loeb isn’t so bad , although the translation originates from 1566 it is revised and is close enough to help me so far . (I have been using it to help me read the Latin text and am about half way through ). It is definitely a text where an English translation is useful as Apuleius uses so many strange words and constructions.
It is a fascinating book in many ways and well worth the effort.
Oddly enough, I’m using the same translation, Philip. The translation is a useful one, though not very faithful - lots of the Latin gets lopped off altogether. So just beware - the word you’re looking for may not be in the English at all!
I’m working through the Cupid and Psyche digression right now - Books IV - VI. I’m guessing you’re in the middle of that, or close to it? Venus has just discovered that Cupid disobeyed her command to humilate Psyche in the worst way possible. Lots of fun, but hard, too.
David
You can’t say ass but you can say asshole.
“The Golden Asshole” is probably just as appropriate, given some of the racier sections of the text.
-David