The "assegai" is a short javelin or spear originally used by the Zulu and other Nguni tribes. It is made of wood, tipped with a wide metal point, and is used for close-quarter combat. Basically, one would stab one's opponent in the abdomen up through the rib cage, and when the spear is pulled out, it would essentially disembowel the person. (Sorry, that might be too much information...). Anyway, people used this weapon (or one similar to it) in wars fought in the middle ages, and was apparently also used by soldiers around Shakespeare's time.
So, when referring to William Shakespeare, people in South Africa have created their own special name for the Bard that is both historically accurate and poetic. It has three parts: Willy (William), Wobbly (Shake), and Assegai (Spear).
Willy Wobbly Assegai.
I think I've found the perfect name for my firstborn son.
oooooh. gross and interesting. :)
ReplyDeleteMy stomach turned a little.
ReplyDeleteWhy wait to name your first born this...this would be a great blog name...or you can officially change yours. Thoughts? :-)