ePub Jordanian Exceptionalism: The Alliance of the State and the Muslim Brothers by M. Moaddel in History

Description

“The last wild frontier of classical studies.” ---The Times (UK)The Chemical Muse uncovers decades of misdirection and obfuscation to reveal the history of widespread drug use in Ancient Rome and Greece. In the city-states that gave birth to Western civilization; drugs were an everyday element of a free society. Often they were not just available; but vitally necessary for use in medicine; religious ceremonies; and war campaigns. Their proponents and users existed in all classes; from the common soldier to the emperor himself.Citing examples in myths; medicine; and literature; D. C. A. Hillman shows how drugs have influenced and inspired the artists; philosophers; and even politicians whose ideas have formed the basis for civilization as we know it. Many of these ancient texts may seem well-known; but Hillman shows how timid; prudish translations have left scholars and readers in the dark about the reality of drug use in the Classical world. Hillman’s argument is not simply “pro-drug.” Instead; he appeals for an intellectual honesty that acknowledges the use of drugs in ancient societies despite today’s conflicting social mores. In the modern world; where academia and university life are often politically charged; The Chemical Muse offers a unique and long overdue perspective on the contentious topic of drug use and the freedom of thought.