Cupid and Psyche

Repetition and parallel are important features of fairy tales and fables, where these structures help create meaning. Analyze “Cupid and Psyche” and explain how the various parallels and repeated actions serve to illustrate or elaborate on a chosen theme or message.

The myth of the Golden Fleece and the story of Demeter and Persephone are other famous Greek myths that surface in “Cupid and Psyche.” Read a version of these myths and make an argument for how these other stories provide background, context, or reflection on the themes of “Cupid and Psyche.” Use examples from the text for support.

In his introduction to The Metamorphoses, Apuleius writes that he wants the reader to feel a sense of “wonder” and enjoyment at his tales of transformations (1). The old woman who relates “Cupid and Psyche” calls it a “pretty story” (75). Make an argument for what aspects of this story would be most appealing or entertaining to an ancient Roman audience. Reference what you know of this culture to support your argument.

Analyze what the story of Cupid and Psyche has to say about the human experience of love. This may include love of family, parents, siblings, children; love of a human partner; spiritual love; or love of the natural world. Use examples from the text for support.

Consider the tasks or trials that Venus assigns and explain what each task is meant to teach Psyche. Account for the purpose and character of the various helpers. Include Psyche’s journey to the underworld in your explanation of what she learns or accomplishes during these trials.

The intervention of Jupiter putting everything right at the end is a technique borrowed from ancient Greek drama called deus ex machina, in which a god descended onto the stage at the conclusion of a piece to resolve the conflicts. Explain how this intervention either adds to or detracts from what the other characters might be learning from their experiences.

Analyze, in your own terms, the role of Venus in this story. Given that she is the goddess of love, how do you interpret her actions? Describe how Venus helps Cupid and Psyche come to a deeper or better understanding of the human experience of love.

“Cupid and Psyche” is told from an omniscient point of view, meaning that the narrator can see and comment on the behavior and thoughts of all the characters at any time. Choose one of the major characters and rewrite the story from their point of view. Then, explain how your version adds to, develops, or departs from the original.