Publisher's Synopsis
THE ONLY STAND ALONE VERSION OF ARISTOTLE'S FAMOUS ESSAY ON MELANCHOLY.Original title Problemata XXX.iIt begins with the much quoted question: 'Through what cause do all those who become eminent in philosophy or politics or poetry or the arts turn out to be melancholics?'In a modernised and adapted translation by philosopher Dr Marlies ter BorgMarlies shows that Aristotle's concept of melancholy is bipolar.'For melaina cholè can become both very hot and very cold.'The Greek philosopher warns for extreme mood, agressive mania or suicidal dejection. As a warning against extreme mood, Aristotle mentions the mythical figures of Greek tragedy, Ajax and Hercules.Aristotle advises melancholics therapy and medicine, to avoid extremes.'Melancholics are in perpetual need of medicine. Depending on coincidence, they can become the victim of either extreme exuberance or deep sorrow. And through medical therapy these extremes become less pronouced.''If they are not careful, they can become extremely melancholic.''However if their melaina cholè is tempered, they are men of genius'
