Alcmaeon was, says [J.] Wachtler, the first who attempted to explain the phenomenon of sound and our perception of it by reference to the structure of the ear itself. Empedocles to some extent follows or agrees with him. ...Empedocles teaches that hearing is caused by the impact of the air-wave against the cartilage which is suspended within the ear, oscillating as it is struck, like a gong.
He ne'er presumed to make an error clearer;—In short, there never was a better hearer.
Little pitchers have wide ears.
Who is so deaf as he that will not hear?
Where more is meant than meets the ear.
I was all ear,Under the ribs of death.
Such an exploit have I in hand, Ligarius,Had you a healthful ear to hear of it.
Hear me for my cause, and be silent, that you may hear.
Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears.
One eare it heard, at the other out it went.
Within a bony labyrinthean cave,Muse, that presides o'er all the Powers of Sound.
None so deaf as those that will not hear.
Went in at the one eare and out at the other.
Hear ye not the humOf mighty workings?
Where did you get that pearly ear?God spoke and it came out to hear.
He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
They never would hear,As a matter they had no concern in.
He that has ears to hear, let him stuff them with cotton.
Strike, but hear me.