Sleep and Dreams in Early Greek Thought: Presocratic and Hippocratic Approaches

This book explores how sleep and dreams were approached in early Greek thought, highlighting the theories of the Presocratic and Hippocratic writers as more varied, complex, and substantial than is usually credited. It draws from wider investigations into physiology and psychology, the natural world, and the self, and engages with literary depictions and cultural beliefs. The focus is on Presocratic and Hippocratic ideas, but also includes Homer and the mythic tradition, lyric, drama, and historiography. It is accessible to students and scholars of ancient medicine, Greek philosophy, and classical culture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 18 March 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the intricate and multifaceted realm of sleep and dreams in early Greek thought, unveiling a rich tapestry of theories and perspectives that often go unnoticed. Contrary to popular belief, the Presocratic and Hippocratic writers approached these phenomena with a depth and complexity that surpasses mere speculation. They drew upon a wide range of investigations into physiology, psychology, the natural world, and the self, weaving intricate tapestries of knowledge that shed light on the enigmatic nature of sleep and dreams.

At the same time, these thinkers were not confined to their intellectual pursuits alone. They engaged with broader literary depictions and established cultural beliefs, incorporating them into their theories to create a comprehensive understanding of these enigmatic phenomena. While the focus of this book is predominantly on the Presocratic and Hippocratic ideas, it also pays close attention to sleep and dreams in Homer and the mythic tradition. Furthermore, it explores depictions across lyric, drama, and historiography, providing a comprehensive examination of the ways in which sleep and dreams were perceived and interpreted in ancient Greece.

Sleep and Dreams in Early Greek Thought is an invaluable resource for students and scholars of ancient medicine, the history of science, Greek philosophy, and classical culture. It is accessible to students with or without knowledge of the classical languages, and its engaging writing style makes it accessible to anyone with a general interest in the beliefs of the classical world. By exploring the rich tapestry of theories and perspectives presented in this book, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of sleep and dreams, and their place within the broader context of ancient Greek thought.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367209162