Can watching a tragedy help heal the soul? The ancient Greeks certainly thought so. Αncient Greek drama was more than entertainment—it was a tool for emotional and psychological healing. Nowhere was this belief more evident than in the Theater of Epidaurus, built within the sacred sanctuary of Asclepius, the god of medicine.
Greek physicians and philosophers recognized that emotional distress could affect physical health. They believed that through catharsis—emotional purification—drama could provide psychological relief, helping individuals process grief, fear, and trauma. As part of their healing process, patients at Epidaurus were encouraged to attend theatrical performances, reinforcing the idea that mental well-being was just as important as physical health.
How did ancient Greek drama contribute to healing? What role did the Theater of Epidaurus play in this process? This article explores how drama, medicine, and psychology merged in one of the greatest sanctuaries of the ancient world.
The idea of catharsis originates from Aristotle’s Poetics, where he describes it as the purging of emotions, particularly pity and fear, through art. Tragedies, in particular, helped audiences confront deep emotions, allowing them to experience suffering without personal consequences.
Catharsis was not just aesthetic appreciation—it was a form of therapy, guiding individuals through their emotional turmoil in a structured and communal setting.
Unlike most Greek theaters, which were built in city centers for public entertainment, the Theater of Epidaurus was part of a medical sanctuary. Here, art and medicine coexisted, recognizing that mental and emotional healing were crucial aspects of well-being.
Why Was a Theater Built in a Healing Sanctuary?
Greek physicians recognized the link between psychological distress and physical ailments, making theater an essential form of therapy in the Asclepieion.
Greek plays, particularly tragedies and comedies, served different therapeutic functions:
Example: In Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex, the protagonist faces inescapable fate and devastating loss, prompting audiences to reflect on their own fears and hardships.
Example: Aristophanes’ plays, like Lysistrata, used humor to address serious issues, helping audiences see life’s struggles in a lighter way.
The belief in emotional healing through drama did not disappear with ancient Greece. The principles of catharsis and theater therapy continue to shape modern psychology, medicine, and entertainment.
1. Drama Therapy in Psychology
