JOURNAL ARTICLE

Chemical Warfare in Ancient Greek Ionia: Mass Intoxication With Hecate's Deleterium.

  • Published In: Military Medicine, 2023, v. 188, n. 5/6. P. 116 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Tsoucalas, Gregory; Symvoulakis, Emmanouil K; Michaleas, Spyros N; Tzatzarakis, Manolis N; Karamanou, Marianna 3 of 3

Abstract

This article focuses on the historical account of biowarfare in ancient Ionia, specifically the use of a poisoned bull by the Thessalian priestess Chrysame to aid King Codrus of Athens in conquering the city of Erythrae. Drawing on ancient sources, it describes how Chrysame employed herbal poisons to induce madness in the enemy through the consumption of the bull's flesh, effectively incapacitating the Erythraean army. The narrative situates this event within the broader cultural and religious context of the 11th century BC Greek world, highlighting the role of chthonic goddess Hecate and her priestesses in the development of early biological warfare tactics. The article also discusses the significance of such practices in ancient warfare and their lasting impact on military history.

Additional Information

  • Source:Military Medicine. 2023/05, Vol. 188, Issue 5/6, p116
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Social Sciences and Humanities
  • Publication Date:2023
  • ISSN:0026-4075
  • DOI:10.1093/milmed/usad052
  • Accession Number:163792927
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