Apuleius and the Esoteric Revival: An Ancient Decadent in Modern Times

Abstract

This article seeks to excavate a noteworthy source of inspiration for the interlocking decadent and esoteric movements of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries: the classical Latin writer Apuleius. Apuleius’ life and works brought together decadent literature, magic, witchcraft and the esoteric strand in pagan religion – the same conjunction that later manifested itself in Britain and France in the late Victorian era. Apuleius is sometimes referred to in the academic literature as an influence on modern decadence and the occult revival, but no sustained study of his role in this regard has yet been produced. This essay will proceed in the following way. First, we will undertake an overview of Apuleius and his novel The Golden Ass. Second, we will locate the position that Apuleius occupied in the literary context of the nineteenth century, with particular reference to the decadent tradition. Third, we will survey his influence on the modern esoteric revival in general. Finally, we will examine specifically his influence on revived goddess-worship.