Final answer:
The story of Narcissus symbolizes the dangers of vanity and selfishness, leading to his transformation into a flower. Artwork like Dalí's 'Metamorphosis of Narcissus' adds depth to the myth, reflecting on psychological aspects and Surrealist themes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The story of Narcissus, as found in Ovid's Metamorphoses, has often been interpreted as a cautionary tale about vanity and selfishness. The young Narcissus falls in love with his own reflection in a lake, unable to pull himself away, which ultimately leads to his demise. In his place, a flower blooms, symbolizing the transformation from self-obsession to something beautiful in nature. The representation of this myth in art, such as Salvador Dalí's Metamorphosis of Narcissus, often adds layers of interpretation and nuance. Dalí's version not only depicts the myth but also provides commentary on the nature of human psychology and perception. It reveals how self-admiration can make one blind to the world around them, a theme consistent with the Surrealist movement's interest in dream-like imagery and the subconscious.