The rules of drug taking: Wine and poppy derivatives in the Ancient World. III. Wine as an instrument of aggressive behavior and of ritual madness

Wine-induced facilitation of aggressive behavior was well known by the Ancients but, being considered a sign of cowardice, its exploitation on the battlefield was attributed to barbarians only. Aspects of drinking behavior considered particularly negative, such as drinking undiluted wine or getting drunk, were also attributed to barbarians. Drunkenness was, however, condoned during Dionysian feasts, when wine became, along with dance, the instrument of enthusiasm, the possession by the god. Similarities between Dionysian feasts and Sciamanic rites are discussed.