In "Mistress of the Monarchy: The Life of Katherine Swynford, Duchess of Lancaster," Alison Weir highlights the perils of warfare beyond direct combat. While soldiers faced the immediate threat of enemy attacks, non-battle-related dangers were equally lethal. Dysentery and other diseases often claimed the lives of those who survived the battlefield, leading to significant losses within armies.

The quote underscores the grim reality of historical conflicts, where the risk of dying from illness became almost as prevalent as the threats posed by opposing forces. This reflects the harsh conditions of military life, emphasizing the vulnerability of troops to factors beyond their control, such as poor sanitation and lack of medical care during wartime.