Richard Firth-Godbehere - A Human History of Emotion_ Chapters 5

Introduction to Emotion in History

• Title: A Human History of Emotion

• Author: Richard Firth-Godbehere

• Published by: 4th Estate • London

The Siege of Constantinople

• Date: May 28, 1453

• Event: The Ottoman army, led by Sultan Mehmed II, began a final push against the city of Constantinople after a prolonged siege.

• Significance of Constantinople: Deeply symbolic for Islamic soldiers; had spiritual significance linked to past attempts to conquer it.

Themes of Emotion

• Morale and Leadership: Sultan Mehmed II focused on building soldiers' confidence before the attack.

• Symbolic Meaning: Ottoman perception of Constantinople as the "gate to prosperity" emphasized the emotional drive behind their efforts.

The Nature of Fear

• Definition: Fear is triggered by the amygdala in the brain, motivating defensive behaviors such as fight or flight.

• Cultural Aspects: Fear varies widely by culture; some fears are learned through upbringing, illustrating fear’s complexity.

• Positive Fear: The book argues that certain fears can drive people towards achieving great things, such as exampled with the Ottomans.

Emotional Roots in Islam

• Muhammad's Revelation: The fear of God, or Allah, becomes a central theme in the faith; it is not just fear but also an emotional connection.

The Koran and Emotion

• Emotional Weight: The Koran is designed to evoke deep emotional responses, urging believers to respond with compassion and commitment to God.

• Fear as a Motivator: The notion of fear in Islam serves to inspire moral behavior and faithfulness among followers.

Ibn Sina and Emotions

• Historical Context: Ibn Sina's medical theories connected physical health to emotional states, emphasizing the role of the heart in experiencing feelings.

• Humor Theory: Emotions were thought to arise from the balance of bodily humors, influencing moods and behaviors.

Community and War

• Unity in Battle: The emotional community within the Ottoman army, enhanced by shared beliefs and experiences, was fundamental to their success.

• Role of Sultan Mehmed II: Engaged with his troops through speeches, shared fears and affirmations, contributing to a strong emotional bond among soldiers.

Impact of the Conquest

• Historical Impact: The fall of Constantinople altered the course of European history, influencing trade routes and leading to major geopolitical changes.

Conclusion

• Emotional Drive: The emotional underpinnings of events like the siege emphasize how feelings shape not only personal motivations but historical outcomes, showcasing the integral role of emotion in shaping human history.