Trauma and the state. How did the Roman state handle psychologically and physically traumatised veterans?

Abstract

Trauma can be either physical of psychological. Warfare can result in either. This thesis researches the knowledge that the Romans had regarding psychological and physical trauma and their possible treatment. Furthermore the thesis examines the, both conscious and unconscious, efforts to reduce the risk of psychological trauma. Finally a comparison is made between physical and psychological trauma. The comparison relates to physically and psychologically traumatized soldiers, and the laws and regulations in place to aid them after their active service. This thesis thus provides an insight into the role of the state regarding traumatized soldiers through the institution of the army and the judicial system. It also provides insights into the role of the state in a veteran's life after service and examines the lives of minority groups, in this case the physically and mentally traumatized.