The Temples and Ritual of Asklepios at Epidauros and Athens: Two Lectures Delivered at the Royal Institution of Great Britain

"The Temples and Ritual of Asklepios at Epidauros and Athens" by Richard Caton is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This book focuses on the ancient Greek practices surrounding the worship of Asklepios, the god of healing, particularly at the significant sites of Epidauros and Athens. It examines the archaeological findings from these locations and the rituals associated with them, aiming to present a comprehensive understanding of how ancient Greeks approached health and healing. In the book, Caton offers insights gleaned from his numerous visits to Greece, detailing the architectural structures of the Asklepian sanctuaries, including temples, the Abaton (a dormitory for the sick), and the Tholos, which likely held ritual significance. He discusses the various functions of these spaces, the roles and rituals of the priests, and the ceremonies undertaken by the sick who sought healing. Caton draws on both historical texts and recent archaeological discoveries to illustrate the multi-faceted aspects of worship at these sites, including the use of sacred dogs and serpents in healing practices, the significance of sacrifices, and the community events that surrounded the Asklepian festivals. The book concludes with reflections on the continued relevance of these ancient practices in the context of Western medicine.