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<p>The heart has long occupied a unique position at the intersection of mythology, philosophy, and medicine. In ancient Greek thought, it was regarded not merely as an anatomical structure but as the seat of emotion, intelligence, and vitality. This article traces the evolving conceptualization of the heart from its mythopoetic roots in Hellenic mythology and literature to its re-interpretation within early philosophical discourse and proto-medical frameworks. Through an interdisciplinary approach, we explore how symbolic understandings of the heart informed early medical theories, culminating in the foundational works of Hippocrates, Aristotle, and Galen. We further examine the enduring metaphorical significance of the heart in modern cardiology, particularly in psychosomatic and neurocardiological models that echo ancient intuitions. By uncovering the layered genealogy of cardiac symbolism and function, this study highlights how historical perspectives continue to influence contemporary clinical paradigms. Ultimately, the heart remains not merely a biological organ but a palimpsest of cultural meanings, bridging the domains of myth, medicine, and metaphysical thought.</p>

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Poured from the chalice of myth, pumped by the logic of science: a genealogy of cardiac symbolism and knowledge

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年2月4日

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  • Vasileios Leivaditis,
  • Georgios Mavroudes,
  • Nikolaos Baikoussis,
  • Francesk Mulita,
  • Elias Liolis,
  • Levan Tchabashvili,
  • Konstantinos Tasios,
  • Andreas Antzoulas,
  • Efstratios Koletsis,
  • Manfred Dahm

摘要

The heart has long occupied a unique position at the intersection of mythology, philosophy, and medicine. In ancient Greek thought, it was regarded not merely as an anatomical structure but as the seat of emotion, intelligence, and vitality. This article traces the evolving conceptualization of the heart from its mythopoetic roots in Hellenic mythology and literature to its re-interpretation within early philosophical discourse and proto-medical frameworks. Through an interdisciplinary approach, we explore how symbolic understandings of the heart informed early medical theories, culminating in the foundational works of Hippocrates, Aristotle, and Galen. We further examine the enduring metaphorical significance of the heart in modern cardiology, particularly in psychosomatic and neurocardiological models that echo ancient intuitions. By uncovering the layered genealogy of cardiac symbolism and function, this study highlights how historical perspectives continue to influence contemporary clinical paradigms. Ultimately, the heart remains not merely a biological organ but a palimpsest of cultural meanings, bridging the domains of myth, medicine, and metaphysical thought.