Is Apollonianism Opposed to Dionysianism?
In short, no. The term “Apollonian” stems from the concept that the human mind possess two primary qualities: Apollonian and Dionysian. The Apollonian qualities include reason, order, intellect, rationality, tranquility, harmony, creativity, and light. The Dionysian qualities include emotion, instinct, impulse, ecstasy, sensuality, and darkness. While Apollonianism and Dionysianism are opposite in nature, it must always be remembered that Apollo and Dionysus were both sons of Zeus and thus brothers. They did not oppose one another, but rather complemented one another, creating a perfect, harmonious balance as part of the grand cosmic order. At Delphi, Apollo shared his temple with Dionysus: in the spring and summer, Apollo ruled over the temple, while in winter Dionysus ruled. We have chosen the name “Apollonian” to define ourselves because of our emphasis on science and reason. However, we recognize that a balance between the Apollonian and Dionysian qualities of human nature must be
