19th Annual Student Research Conference
Interdisciplinary
Asclepius at Epidaurus:The Greek God of Medicine in an Archaeological Context
Lauren L. Hamilton
Prof. Martha L. Rose and Dr. Steven Reschly, Faculty Mentors
Asclepius was the Greek hero-god of health, healing, and medicine. By the mid-fifth century B.C. Asclepius emerged, as documented in inscriptions and literary works, in the form of a god dedicated solely to health and healing. Epidaurus, where one of the most important sanctuaries of Asclepius was founded, eventually developed into the largest healing center of ancient times. Patients would come with hope that through ritual and prayer Asclepius would heal them. The physical aspects of the site, for example its thematic use of water, open space, and buildings, were essential for successful temple ritual and healings. In exploring each building within the sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus, along with examining the mythological tradition of Asclepius, one sees the holistic approach to medicine and health during ancient times.
Keywords: Asclepius, Greek, Medicine, Healing, Holistic, Epidaurus, theater, Christina
Topic(s):Study Abroad
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 45-4
Location: OP 2115
Time: 2:00