""Swashbuckler" actually came from the antiquated words "swash" (to make a noise by striking) and "buckler" (shield). A "swashbuckler" was originally a mediocre swordsman who compensated by making a great deal of noise, strutting through the streets banging his sword on his shield, challenging passersby to duels, and just generally acting like a lout." - Word Detective
Armies also used to bang on their shields while in formation before attacking the enemy. Maybe it was to get the blood flowing, maybe it was to enrage themselves, or maybe it was just to make a dreadful noise and they didn't have bagpipes.
Posts: 16990 | Location: Lincoln Place, Granite City, IL, USA | Registered: 06-03-02
Originally posted by DorianGreyed: maybe it was just to make a dreadful noise and they didn't have bagpipes.
No. It was so the English soldiers couldn't hear the regimental bagpipes. Our commanders did have some consideration for the poor devils under their command.
