On Ovid's Metamorphoses

Smart close readings abound, and Williamss punchy analyses make the book fun to read, though they never obscure his mastery of the subject. * Publishers Weekly * The perfect sidekick to accompany readers on their journey through Ovids epicwhether approaching the Metamorphoses for the very first time or revisiting this ever-changing kaleidoscope of a poem. -- Genevieve Liveley, author of <i>Ovids</i> Metamorphoses: <i>A Readers Guide</i> Lucid, insightful, and lively, this book offers compelling new interpretations of Ovid that speak to current issues such as fake news, deceptive speech, sexual violence, gender inequity, and strategies of resistance within an autocracy. These are serious themes, but Williams adopts some of Ovids own wit and psychological nuance, providing an accessible and intellectually exciting approach to the Metamorphoses. -- Carole E. Newlands, author of <i>Playing with Time: Ovid and the</i> Fasti This is a wonderful book. It offers an introduction to Ovid's Metamorphoses and the life of the poet, guiding the reader through some of the epics most memorable moments. The primary pleasure of the book is to read about a great poem through the words of a sensitive and experienced teacher, who wears his erudition very lightly. The writing frequently sparkles, with contemporary allusions and wicked puns throughout. -- James Uden, Boston University The book is full of lively and provocative readings of Ovids greatest work, careening through its changing tales and tales about change to portray a work which, having endured throughout the two millennia since its composition, find a deep resonance even inor especially inthe 2020s. * Bryn Mawr Classical Review * A delightful volume....highly recommended. * Choice *

Gareth Williams is Anthon Professor of the Latin Language and Literature at Columbia University. He has published extensively on Ovid, Roman philosophy, and classical reception.

Preface Introduction 1. Diversity, Idiosyncrasy, and Self-Discovery in the Metamorphoses 2.The Liabilities of Language: Change and Instability in Ovids World of Words 3. The Path of Deviance: Sexual Morality and the Incestuous Urge in the Metamorphoses 4. Rough Justice: Victimization, Revenge, and Divine Punishment in the Metamorphoses Epilogue Further Reading Index