SOURCE: Colton, Robert E. “Philemon and Baucis in Ovid and La Fontaine.” The Classical Journal 63, no. 1 (October 1967): 166-76.

In the following essay, Colton offers a close textual comparison of the Baucis and Philemon story as it is narrated in the Metamorphoses and in La Fontaine's adaptation.

One of the most charming passages in Ovid's Metamorphoses (8.618-724) is the story of Philemon and Baucis narrated by Lelex at the banquet given by the river-god Acheloüs in honor of the hero Theseus. The story may be briefly summarized. The gods Jupiter and Mercury, disguised as mortals, travel through Phrygia. No one extends them hospitality. At length they reach the humble cottage of an aged couple, Philemon and Baucis, who give them a warm reception and modest entertainment. Jupiter and Mercury ultimately reveal themselves to the couple. Then the two divine guests, with their host and hostess, withdraw to a...