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The Gladiator's Tears: Epiphora From Ancient Rome.
Francesco M Galassi1,2, Michael E Habicht1,2, Kristina Killgrove3
1Institute of Evolutionary Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
|September 11, 2019
Summary
This study analyzes ancient Roman medical texts to understand epiphora (watery eye). It interprets a gladiator's eye issue as trauma-induced epiphora, offering historical insights into the condition.
Area of Science:
- Medical history
- Classical studies
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Epiphora, or watery eye, is a common ophthalmological condition.
- Understanding its historical presentation provides context for modern diagnosis and treatment.
Observation:
- Analysis of Juvenal's Satire VI reveals a gladiator's potential ophthalmological issue.
- The described symptoms are interpreted as epiphora resulting from craniofacial trauma.
Findings:
- The literary evidence suggests epiphora in Ancient Rome was linked to traumatic injuries.
- This aligns with palaeopathological findings of similar injuries.
Implications:
- This historical analysis deepens our understanding of epiphora's clinical presentation across different eras.
- It highlights the long-standing nature of eye conditions and their management challenges.