Overview
This narrative recounts the myth of Psyche, a mortal woman whose extraordinary beauty leads to trials set by the gods, her relationship with Cupid, and her eventual transformation into an immortal.
Psyche's Beauty and Isolation
- Psyche’s beauty was so exceptional that people worshipped her as a new Venus, but it intimidated potential human suitors.
- Her father consulted the Oracle, who instructed him to abandon Psyche on a rocky crag to marry a monstrous being.
Arrival at the Palace and Mysterious Husband
- Zephyr, the West Wind, transported Psyche from the crag to a palace, where an unseen husband awaited her.
- She met her husband only in darkness, and he forbade her from discovering his identity.
- Despite their intimacy, Psyche struggled with not knowing her husband’s true form.
Discovery and Separation
- Psyche, motivated by doubt and curiosity, illuminated her husband with a lamp and discovered he was the god Cupid.
- Cupid revealed he had fallen in love with her, but ran away after being discovered, believing their happiness was now impossible.
Trials Set by Venus
- Psyche was told by Venus she must complete several impossible tasks to be reunited with Cupid.
- First, Psyche had to sort a massive pile of seeds, but was aided by an ant colony.
- Second, she acquired golden fleece with the guidance of a river god.
- Third, she descended into the Underworld, bringing gifts for Cerberus and Charon, and secured Proserpina’s beauty for Venus.
Completion of the Tasks and Immortality
- When Psyche opened the beauty box, she fell into a deep sleep because it contained sleep instead of beauty.
- Cupid, now healed, revived Psyche and acknowledged her courage and equality.
- Cupid granted Psyche ambrosia, making her immortal.
Resolution and Legacy
- Psyche and Cupid were reunited and had a daughter named Pleasure.
- Their union symbolizes the ongoing complexities of love between the soul (Psyche) and desire (Cupid).