Greek physicians would define people in one of, or more, four different categories called the Four Temperaments Theory, The Four Temperaments Theory describe four types of being: Sanguine, Choleric, Melancholic, and Phlegmatic. Each temperament has its own unique set of characteristics, including physical features, which would help Greek physicians determine and treat their clients. This same theory was coined by Hippocrates ‘The Father of Medicine’ (460-370 BC). His work was an extensively reliable system in its time to predict a person’s behavior, this would not include the mentally ill. Physicians and Therapists still use this same system today.
The people who fall under Sanguine tend to be light-hearted, optimistic, and pleasure-seekers. They are also very creative and have a positive way of looking at everyday life, but that does not mean that they are perfect. These types of people also tend to have a vulnerability to addictions like, gambling and smoking, other negative characteristics would include, ‘talk a lot’ struggles with completing tasks’ is chronically late’ and tends to forget his obligations’ he bases his decisions primarily on feelings.’ (The Transformed Soul). Their physique is also observed, common attributes are, ‘balanced, neither too fat nor too thin. Moderate frame and build. Elegant, statuesque form, with ample, luxuriant flesh.’ (greekmedicine.net)
The Choleric personality type is more determined and hungry for success, and people with this personality type are the ones who take charge. Businesses who are in need of a bold character would want to look for people with this temperament because they would make great managers and bosses. Being that they are naturally analytical, they do not care about others feelings. Choleric’s negative aspects consist of: ‘Prone to anger, impatience, irritability; short temper.’ (greekmedicine.net). ‘Compact, lean, wiry. Good muscle tone, definition.’ are common attributes of people who fall under this personality type (greekmedicine.net).
The third personality is Melancholic, or as The Transformed Soul would call it ‘The Thinker’. These type of people love tradition like ‘Women cook for men; men open doors for women. They love their families and friends and, unlike sanguine temperament, do not look for novelty and adventure.’ according to Psychologia. People with this personality often view themselves and life in a negative light, making them really introverted. Passion is one of their stronger aspects, they put their all in hobbies or other activities they love, like, ‘art, literature, music, health-care and ministry’ (thetransformedsoul.com). Those of this personality type are thought to have a lean body with tight skin, making their bones and veins show more.
Lastly, the final personality type is Phlegmatic. These people are the ‘relaxed and quiet’ type (thetransformedsoul.com). These are the procrastinators, the ones who put their deeds off to the side and wait until the last minute. Peacemaking is a strong attribute of theirs, so they always try to reach balance in relationships. Because of this ‘Someone with phlegmatic personality type is usually a people person.’ (Psychologia.co). Though they may be considered peaceful and ambient they also tend to keep their emotions bottled up and worry a lot. Round faces and plump or obese bodies are common for this personality type.
The Four Temperaments were used by Greek physicians to associate their clients with a general personality type. The Sanguine personality type is warm and childish and does not any extra attention. The Choleric personality type can be more strict and logic driven, but it is the type to get objectives done quick and right. Melancholic is the personality type that is very down to earth and shy, but its attributes endorse passion and creativity. Finally, the ones who fall under the Phlegmatic personality type are balanced and humble, and always strive to keep everyone happy and satisfied. There is a personality type for everyone out there, and once he or she finds that, he or she will have unlocked a new guide to his or her life.