Which animal is symbolic in the tale of Midas due to his transformation?

In the tale of Midas, the animal that is most symbolic due to his transformation is indeed the donkey. Midas is famous for his wish that everything he touched would turn to gold, a blessing that quickly becomes a curse. In his story, when he is unable to eat and is suffering from his own greed and foolishness, he is eventually transformed into a donkey by Dionysus, the god of wine and festivity. This transformation serves as a reminder of Midas' folly; donkeys were often associated with stubbornness and hard labor, highlighting his lack of wisdom in desiring wealth without understanding its consequences.

The symbolism of the donkey in this context emphasizes the irony of his situation. A once-wealthy king is reduced to the fate of a laboring animal, illustrating the consequences of his greed and the importance of valuing wisdom over material wealth. The connection between Midas and the donkey ultimately highlights the moral lesson of the story, making this animal a significant symbol in Midas's tale.