Psychological Intimidation at the Battle of Carrhae

Psychological intimidation in military conflict has been an art of war since ancient times. Employing misinformation, feigned movements, subtle messaging, and overt display of aggression, its employ is meant to unnerve the enemy before engagement. Surena, the Parthian commander, used it brilliantly against Rome’s Crassus, before and during the Battle of Carrhae, in 53 BCE.