PTSD Among Ancient Soldiers: A Historical Exploration

The historical accounts of ancient warfare provide valuable insights into the psychological states of soldiers long before the term Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) was coined. This article examines the evidence for PTSD or culturally similar phenomena among ancient armies, drawing on scholarly research and primary sources. By delving into ancient texts and archaeological findings, we can better understand the resilience and vulnerability of warriors from antiquity.

Historical Evidence of Psychological Trauma

One of the earliest documented instances of wartime psychological distress is recorded in the Assyrian Dynasty inscriptions from 1300-609 BC. These inscriptions describe the traumas experienced by soldiers who were called upon to fight every third year during their military service. This suggests that the intensity and frequency of combat led to significant mental health challenges even in ancient times. Similarly, Herodotus, the Greek historian, observed that Epizelus, a spear carrier from Athens, suffered psychological problems following the Marathon War in 490 BC.

Appian of Alexandria, a historian from the 2nd century AD, documented a disturbing incident involving Cestius Macedonicus, a legion veteran. When his town was under threat of capture by Octavian (later Augustus), Cestius set fire to his house and burned himself within it. This act of self-destruction highlights the profound psychological impact of ongoing military service and the escalating stress levels faced by ancient soldiers.

Severe Psychological Stress Among Ancient Warriors

Plutarch’s Lives of the Noble Grecians and Romans offers another poignant example. The Life of Marius recounts that Caius Marius suffered from night terrors, harassing dreams, excessive drinking, and flashbacks to previous battles towards the end of his life. These symptoms are strikingly similar to modern descriptions of PTSD. This suggests that the experience of psychological trauma was not unique to the recent past but was a recurring issue among ancient warriors.

The Cultural Context of Trauma in Ancient Times

The prevalence and recognition of PTSD in ancient societies must be understood within their cultural context. Ancient societies were more violent, with higher mortality rates, and often relied on conscripted armies for warfare. Therefore, death, killing, and violence were more normalized and prevalent. This societal context may have influenced how trauma was perceived and experienced. Some warriors undoubtedly suffered psychological wounds, but it is debatable whether these were as prevalent and recognized as PTSD.

Literary Evidence: Homer's Iliad

Literary works such as Homer's Iliad offer further insights into the emotional and psychological states of ancient warriors. Characters like Achilles and Patroclus exhibit behaviors and responses that are reminiscent of PTSD, such as anger, fear, and deep-seated grief. The Iliad does not explicitly use the term PTSD, but it clearly conveys the immense suffering that could arise from traumatic experiences in war.

The Evolution of Understanding Trauma

Throughout history, different cultures have recognized and addressed psychological symptoms that align with modern descriptions of PTSD. The terms "shell shock" and "battle fatigue" emerged in response to the psychological trauma experienced during the World Wars. However, the understanding and recognition of PTSD as a clinical condition is relatively recent. The ability to diagnose and treat PTSD has dramatically improved in recent decades, providing greater support for those affected by military and non-military traumas.

In conclusion, the historical evidence strongly suggests that psychological trauma was a significant issue among ancient soldiers. While the societal context and the way trauma was perceived varied, the symptoms and experiences of PTSD in ancient times are remarkably similar to those observed today. As we continue to study the past, we gain a deeper understanding of the enduring nature of human resilience and vulnerability in the face of war and its aftermath.

References

Appendix 1: The Assyrian Dynasty Inscriptions Appendix 2: Herodotus, The Histories Appendix 3: Appian of Alexandria, The Civil Wars Appendix 4: Plutarch, Lives of the Noble Grecians and Romans Appendix 5: Homer, The Iliad