This title delves into the origins and development of ancient romance literature, expanding upon a series of lectures given by Ben Edwin Perry at the University of California in 1951. This scholarly work examines the romance genre's historical foundations and explores two main branches: the ideal romance of love and adventure and the "comic" romance, a form characterized by satire, mockery, and picaresque elements. In Part I, Perry addresses the "ideal romance," a popular form among the masses, centered on idealized narratives of love and adventure. He traces its evolution, emphasizing the genre's widespread appeal and the continuity in its demand throughout the ancient world. By addressing key literary-historical questions, Perry brings to light the genre's foundational aspects, situating it within broader cultural and social contexts. Part II shifts focus to "comic romances," distinct for their humorous, satirical tone and their appeal to a more elite, educated audience. Perry explor