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| Seeing this can be very intimidating, I would want him to lift his mask to let me know his intent was friendly how about you? |
When knights in medieval times wanted to express friendly intent, they would raise their face masks and reveal their faces. The practice of saluting is also derived from this practice the knights created. Lifting one's armor mask eventually evolved into the custom of "tipping" one's hat to greet or acknowledge another, women in particular. When knights would enter a building, removing their helmet signified a peaceful position, since a knight could not fight or defend himself without the helmet. Since the removal of his helmet made him vulnerable, it informed others that combat or any type of violence was not his motive. This practice also evolved into the removal of one's hat when entering a building, when hearing the national anthem and in different situations where they would not be going back out in public immediately. Men would hold their hats in their hand when speaking with a lady but would put it back on when they began to walk together if out in public. It is amazing to see how these common courtesies have their roots in codes of conduct and communication from ancient practices to ensure a peaceful position was maintained in certain situations.
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| Imagine being a lady passing by and being treated to this! |
