Description
The desire for honour in battle within Germanic society was so strong that some men were not considered worthy of their tribe, or even their parents, until they had spilt the blood of an enemy. The young warriors of the Chatti tribe were unique in this respect, growing their hair and beards until they claimed their first kill in battle. As a result, unkempt facial hair was seen as the mark of men yet to prove their worth, or cowardice. It is said, however, that the bravest Chatti grew enamoured with their lengthy beards and, even when white with age, and having claimed many kills, wore them with defiance. Typically, these men often led the first charge during a battle.
