Abstract
The mythical fight of Heracles against the Hydra presents an allegory to the fight of humanity against the COVID-19 pandemic. The rational interpretation of the myth can help people understand the intricacies of the management of healthcare crises. Combined with this, the myth can also create respect for healthcare workers and inspire individuals to take positive action in the fight against COVID-19. Although myths have been regarded as a threat to public health, mythological elements and allegories can become potent tools of health promotion.
Highlights
It is common knowledge that Greek mythology has provided humanity and even the medical community with a rich heritage of oral and literary traditions concerning the origin and nature of the world, the practices of the ancient Greeks, as well as the lives of both realistic and mythological creatures [1, 2]
The authors discuss the management of the COVID-19 pandemic as an allegory to the killing of the Hydra, one of the most impressive labours of Heracles
This allegory can help explain the complexity of the pandemic in a plain manner to those who are familiar with its context
Summary
It is common knowledge that Greek mythology has provided humanity and even the medical community with a rich heritage of oral and literary traditions concerning the origin and nature of the world, the practices of the ancient Greeks, as well as the lives of both realistic and mythological creatures [1, 2]. The age at which most people, including those in the medical sector, are fascinated is the heroic one; it is the mortality of the human heroes that makes them familiar to everyone and an example to follow. The heroic age dawn is dominated by the most recognizable and popular hero of all: Heracles, a prolific figure who performed twelve unparalleled labours [4, 5]. The authors discuss the management of the COVID-19 pandemic as an allegory to the killing of the Hydra, one of the most impressive labours of Heracles. This allegory can help explain the complexity of the pandemic in a plain manner to those who are familiar with its context.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
