The biological and chemical warfare in Ancient Greece (8th-4th centuries bc)

Abstract

When we hear the expression "biological or bacteriological warfare" we think of a type of offensive with wapons containing viruses or bacteria and capable of inflicting massive damage on the army or civilian population. We also might beliveve that their invention is more or less recent. However, the ancient Greeks already knew the effects produced by certain venoms and substances in the human body, whether those substances were of plant or animal origin. Using them in the military field was a matter of time. Contrary to what is commoly believed, building chemical and biological weapons was not complicated, and it did not require great technical and scientific knowledge. Thus, most of these weapons had simple technology, which did not detract from their effectiveness.

Greek sources hardly mention this type of weapon, than was used not only by humans, but there are also various examples of their use in the mythological sphere. This lack of references could be because they were considered cruel and dishonnorable weapons, symbolizing merciless, cunning, secret and inmoral warfare. Besides they often caused panful and incurable wounds and, in the worst case, an agonizing death.

In short, this type of weapon contradicted the Greek ideal of a fair and respetful war, subject to series of ethical principles approved by the Greek society. However, the principle of order and fairness in warfare was fragile in Ancient Greece. Thus, resorting to clever tricks to surprise the enemy was, at heart, well regarded and, to some extent, admirable.  It was, therefore, difficult to establish where the boundaries between the acceptable and the reprehensible laid. It is precisely in this context that biological weapons would be placed. The use of these weapons in Greece would date back to early times and mythical tales.