Summary
An analysis of the cultural significance and implications of losing a Spartan chieftain's shield.
The Sanctity of the Spartan Shield
Highlights
Ancient Custom and Exile
There is no historical record of a Spartan chieftain being stripped of their sacred shield by a rival, as such an act violates deeply held ancient customs. Any chieftain forced to suffer this indignity would have chosen permanent exile over the shame of returning home.
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Original text
There is no record of any rival clan stripping a Spartan chieftain of his sacred shield. For such an act violates ancient custom; had anyone been subjected to such disarming, they would have refused to return home and chosen exile instead.