The Role of Incubation in Ancient Greek Asklepieions

Contrary to the long-held belief that incubation—sleeping in temples to receive healing dreams—was central to ancient Greek Asklepieions, this study challenges that notion. Analyzing four key sources from classical and Roman periods, including inscriptions from Epidauros and texts like Aristophanes' 'Wealth,' researchers found no direct mention of the incubation ritual. Instead, the described treatments align with contemporary rational medicine, suggesting that while incubation was practiced, its role was likely smaller than previously assumed.

Liwerska-Garstecka, A. (2024). The Role of Incubation in Ancient Greek Asklepieions. Athens Journal of History, 10(4), 323–344. https://doi.org/10.30958/ajhis.10-4-4