Tra disabilità ed eroismo: il soldato mutilato

The devastating experience of the Great War was a crucial moment in the history of orthopedic, but also in that of special education. In addition to the great progresses in surgery (especially in the techniques of amputation and in research into prostheses), a change happened in the disabled men’s moral assistance and care. In Italy the maimed soldiers were supported by national associations and the nationalistic spirit that permeated the country gave a sense, even a sacral one, to their sacrifice. The article focuses on these issues, showing how the strategic use of the propaganda illustration has played an important role.