'The falling sickness' in literature

South Med J. 2000 Dec;93(12):1169-72.

Abstract

Seizures have been described in literature since early times. Since classical literature reflects the attitudes of society, a review of "the falling sickness" in literature provides some insights into the profound affect of epilepsy. This article explores some great writings describing epilepsy and the changing view of an epileptic as a person being "possessed" to that of one with a medical condition.

Publication types

  • Historical Article

MeSH terms

  • Bible
  • Drama / history
  • Epilepsy / history*
  • History, 16th Century
  • History, 17th Century
  • History, 19th Century
  • History, 20th Century
  • History, Ancient
  • Humans
  • Literature, Modern / history*
  • Medicine in Literature*
  • Motion Pictures / history