This introduction considers how Ovid defined and shaped his narrative 'Metamorphoses', its cultural context, and its vivid depictions of the cruelty of jealous gods, the pathos of human love, and the imaginative fantasy of flight, monsters, magic, and illusion. A beautifully written, undogmatic, and thoroughly sound introduction to the Metamorphoses.... This is a book that can be heartily recommended to students and colleagues in other fields who want a sympathetic guide and sharp-eyed observer of Ovid's strengths to help them enjoy every bit of the work.