The Tale of Cupid and Psyche

“The Tale of Cupid and Psyche” has been interpreted as a Platonic allegory. It has also been interpreted from an archetypal (Jungian) perspective, with Psyche as allegorically representing the self in the process of individuation or from a Freudian perspective focusing on psycho-sexual dynamics, In contrast to these tendencies to regard the tale from a philosophical or psychological perspective, some recent scholarship has emphasized the historic aspect as regards gendered expectations of the second century Roman era regarding Roman law and prescribed female behavior and marriage. In a thesis-driven, analytic essay, explore the single approach which is most compelling or persuasive to you. Make the case for your interpretation by drawing on relevant particulars of the tale. Include brief quotations and short phrases from the text in support of what you claim. (Don’t summarize!) Leave out phrases like “I believe,” “I think,” and “I feel.”

Write for an informed reader (your professor or a fellow student who has read the text). At the end of the essay include a work cited entry for Relihan’s translation. Following MLA style (with the translator’s name following the title, not listed together with the author’s name). Show that you have engaged with lecture material. You might want to include some reference to Relihan’s “Afterthoughts.” If you choose to include an additional secondary source, please first consult with me about choosing a source that is appropriate for the academic context. If you choose to write on the tale as a Platonic allegory, then make use of the excerpts from Plato which Relihan supplies in his introduction. Take care to make your own argument rather than simply duplicating the argument of a secondary source. In-text parenthetical references should include the section and paragraph number, like this (5.7).

Further Description

This exercise requires analysis, close reading, interpretation, and an awareness of interpretive differences. Plagiarism in this or any assignment may result in a failing grade in the course. Short (4 to 5 page) analytic paper on “The Tale of Cupid and Psyche” from The Golden Ass “The Tale of Cupid and Psyche” has been interpreted as a Platonic allegory. People also interpret it  from an archetypal (Jungian) perspective, with Psyche as allegorically representing the self in the process of individuation or from a Freudian perspective focusing on psycho-sexual dynamics, In contrast to these tendencies to regard the tale from a philosophical or psychological perspective, more recent scholarship has emphasized the historic aspect as regards gendered expectations of the second century Roman era regarding Roman law and prescribed female behavior and marriage.

In a 4 to 5-page thesis-driven, analytic essay, (due no later than noon of 4/9), explore the single approach which is most compelling or persuasive to you, and take care not to “fast forward” over relevant details of the text as you make your argument. Make the case for your interpretation by drawing on relevant particulars of the tale. Include brief quotations and short phrases from the text in support of what you claim. (Don’t summarize!) Leave out “I,” including phrases like “I believe,” “I think,” and “I feel.”. Write for an informed reader (your professor or a fellow student who has read the text). Follow the instructions above regarding essay writing, including a work cited entry for Relihan’s translation at the end of the essay, following MLA style (with the translator’s name following the title, not listed together with the author’s name).

Additional Information

Show that you have engaged with lecture material. If you choose to include an additional secondary source, please first consult with me about choosing a source that is appropriate for the academic context. Take care to make your own argument rather than simply duplicating the argument of a secondary source. In-text parenthetical references should only include the section and paragraph number, like this (5.7). This exercise requires analysis, close reading, interpretation, and an awareness of interpretive differences

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