I have heard that Tiberius used to say that that man was ridiculous, who after sixth years, appealed to a physician

I have heard that Tiberius used to say that that man was ridiculous, who after sixth years, appealed to a physician

In the context of Plutarch, the statement attributed to Tiberius about the ridiculousness of seeking medical help after six years is a reflection of the ancient Roman attitudes towards medicine and healthcare. Tiberius, who ruled as Emperor of Rome from 14 AD to 37 AD, was known for his skepticism towards physicians and their ability to cure illnesses. This skepticism was not unique to Tiberius, as many Romans viewed medicine with suspicion and often relied on traditional remedies and superstitions instead.

Plutarch, a Greek historian and biographer who lived during the first century AD, wrote extensively about the lives of famous Greeks and Romans, including Tiberius. In his works, Plutarch often highlighted the virtues and vices of his subjects, providing valuable insights into their characters and beliefs. The statement attributed to Tiberius about the futility of seeking medical help after six years is a prime example of the kind of anecdote that Plutarch would include in his biographies to illustrate the mindset of his subjects.

For Tiberius, the idea that someone would continue to seek medical treatment for an illness after six years was absurd. This attitude likely stemmed from a combination of factors, including a lack of trust in the medical profession, a belief in the limited efficacy of medical treatments, and a general fatalistic outlook on life and death. In ancient Rome, illness and disease were often seen as inevitable and beyond human control, leading many to accept their fate rather than actively seek medical intervention.

The statement attributed to Tiberius also reflects the broader cultural attitudes towards health and wellness in ancient Rome. While the Romans did have some knowledge of medicine and anatomy, their understanding was limited compared to modern standards. Medical treatments were often based on superstition, tradition, and trial and error, rather than scientific evidence or empirical observation. As a result, many Romans viewed physicians with skepticism and preferred to rely on more familiar and traditional forms of healing, such as herbal remedies, prayers, and rituals.

Overall, the statement attributed to Tiberius about the futility of seeking medical help after six years provides valuable insight into the ancient Roman attitudes towards medicine and healthcare. It serves as a reminder of the limitations of medical knowledge in the ancient world and the ways in which cultural beliefs and superstitions shaped the way people approached illness and healing. Through the lens of Plutarch's biographical works, we can gain a deeper understanding of the mindset of figures like Tiberius and the broader cultural context in which they lived.