The use of the lachrymal glands in different eras

Abstract

After several references to the enigmatic phenomenon of weeping, the contrast between the lachrymal glands and the “emptiness” of nonverbal crying will be put into context. It becomes therefore plausible to discuss the cultural history of crying. Examples from the ancient world and medieval and preclassic eras are given to illustrate their relatively great openness to weeping. Since the scientific analysis of crying has to be viewed as a specific cultural tradition, a cross section of historic and current research results shall therefore be discussed, including a discussion of the “danger” of disguising the true function of crying through empiricism. The truthfulness function of crying is demonstrated by examples from the political arena. To conclude, the necessity of removing the taboo from weeping is emphasized, as well as the need for speech and psychotherapy to allow the act of crying to return to its original meaning. It is suggested that this matter can be recognized through the pattern of drama building.

Keywords Tears; Crying; Ancient world; Medieval times; Preclassic era; Policy; Psychotherapy; Narrative