Reading Notes: Ovid’s Metamorphoses, Part B

Echo and Narcissus by John William Waterhouse in 1903

Interrupting the snakes and magically changing sex was a strange intro to grasp. New characters pop up out of nowhere.

The section about Echo’s speech was my favorite to read thus far. The idea is genius! Though she is only able to repeat the last words spoken, she makes an impact with what she can say. It must be lonely waiting for Narcissus to speak first then to have him reject her once he sees her. Her poor and helpless soul. I can possible change this up and instead of an echo I could have a loyal dog who always reciprocates love and affection.

There are many emotions expressed but vain and pain seem to reappear the most. Dated words such as “quenched” and “tomb” are used.

Again things are very described with great details. Can create an image in my head instead of just reading countless words.

Women seem to get taken advantage of for their beauty and bodies a lot.


Bibliography: Ovid’s Metamorphoses by Tony Kline