From Homer to Pinel: The concept of personality from antiquity until 1800 AD

Abstract

The main topics in terminology and conceptualization of personality are touched upon, from antiquity until the foundation of psychiatry as an empirical discipline (in the beginning of the 19th century). The theories prevailing during the Middle Ages, especially high scholasticism, during 12th and 13th century, are considered in particular. Literary and philosophical traditions have been dominant in conceptualization and analysis in this field - however, closely intermingled with and incorporated into contributions from medicine. Psychiatry's enduring tradition of polarization into “mentalistic” versus “physicalistic” concepts of the psyche dates back to pre-Socratic philosophy. The tradition of Aristotle is rooted in a pre-Somatic, biologically founded body-soul monism. From Plato onwards - via St. Augustine - a dualistic tradition has dominated European thinking and science until the 20th century, most extremely asserted by Descartes. Psychiatry and psychology of the Middle Ages are hallmarked by these parallel conceptions, witnessing more nuances in the understanding of psychopathology than popularly believed. Thomas Aquinas integrates the thinking of Aristotle, not only in the theology of the Catholic church, but also in how he emphasizes the importance of sensory experience for personality development. In addition, he sees the importance of the biologic basis of the mind, being influenced by the humoral and temperament theory of Galen. Throughout the renaissance period, not only popular beliefs but also medical and philosophical tradition maintained a deeply rooted belief in astrologic theory. Concepts of temperament and constitution have their roots in antique Greek tradition, denoting the biologic basis of personality, and are gradually incorporated into today's concept of personality. During the 20th century this concept of personality has gradually replaced the almost identical concept of character.