The Metamorphoses of Ovid

Second corrected paperback printing 2004. Composed in Latin in the early years of the first century by the Roman poet Ovid the "Metamorphoses" presents a collection of amazing tales of transformation based on Greek mythology and legend. Michael Simpsons prose translation of Ovids masterpiece in the rapid and direct American idiom catches the swiftness and clarity of the Latin original. His introduction sketches the poets life describes his extant works discusses his unusual exile to the west coast of the Black Sea (where he died) and provides a useful context for reading the "Metamorphoses." Simpson has also prepared extensive endnotes that serve as mini-essays illuminating the manifold aspects of the poem and offering commentary and interpretation that enable readers to enter Ovids magical world and enjoy its richness.