Theophrastus on Catharsis and the Need for Release from the Evils Due to Emotions

Theophrastus had a systematic approach to the traditional problem of \u201ccatharsis\u201d and treated the question referring to different fields of knowledge. He proved a keen and unprejudiced observer and collector of the largest possible number of experiences that may describe different kinds of catharsis. At a speculative level, he proceeded in continuity, but even going beyond his teacher\u2019s opinions. Important building blocks in the construction of his cathartic theory were the development of the Aristotelian method through the criterion of the \u201cmore and the less\u201d, which became the guiding principle he applied to physiological enquiries into humors and warmth. This led to a consequent focus on the physiological motions connected with the ones of the soul (both explained in terms of a dynamic relationship between different degrees of \u201ctension\u201d and \u201crelaxation\u201d, two key terms) and with the interpretation of ethical issues in relation to the different degrees of \u201ctension\u201d or \u201crelaxation\u201d of the motions of the soul linked to the emotions in so far as this dynamics produces both vices or virtues. The locution apolysis t\uf4n kak\uf4n (\u201crelease from evils\u201d) seemingly substituted the term \u201ccatharsis\u201d in the ethical contexts in which Theophrastus elaborated his original take on the theme. The cathartic effect of the physiological and psychological \u201crelease from evils\u201d operated through a precise use of the human voice (valid both in music and in the performing arts) involves both the performer and the audience. From an ethical point of view, apolysis t\uf4n kak\uf4n (i.e catharsis) represents the unique end or purpose of his qualitative conception of music. In his view, religious piety does not consist in animal sacrifice or in traditional rites, but rather in an ethical \u201ccatharsis from evils\u201d (katharsis t\uf4n kak\uf4n); therefore, this religious issue might be considered as the starting point and the conclusion of Theophrastus\u2019s philosophical theory of catharsis, a theory in which the whole range of his science is involved