Thanks to Guy Browning- for the How to...Morris Dance

How to ... Morris dance | Life and style | The Guardian: "Morris dancing is the English equivalent of the New Zealand haka and it, too, puts fear into those who witness it, though possibly for slightly different reasons. The traditional costume for morris dancing is a cross between cricket whites, a peasant smock and winter underpants. There are also bells on the legs to warn the general public that acts of morris are about to be committed and to clear the area.

Often, morris men dance with big, white handkerchiefs. This is the English equivalent of the short Zulu stabbing spear, or assegai. The handkerchiefs are held tightly and then whipped around in an aggressive fashion. In much the same way that the Scottish inspire fear and confusion by fighting in skirts, the English promote shock and awe by aggressive use of the handkerchief. It is also useful for clearing the nose."

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