This mock scepter, however, is not only a costume piece, it was considered as vital as a sword for a soldier. "The bauble also served as a protection, and rendered him immune from the anger of those whom he might offend--for, to strike the fool was considered the act of a coward" (Warde).
A jester in an illustrated Bible, 1341 (ONB 1203, fol. 264r)
It is interesting to note that jesters were given this privilege of defending themselves from angry aristocrats. When thinking back to pre-Shakespeare days, it seems like jesters were at the bottom of the totem pole, when in fact, they were next to royalty (literally). So yes, they might lead dangerous lives insulting the court, but that was their privilege and they could protect that privilege through brute force. (:
Works Cited:
Warde, Frederick. The Fools of Shakespeare. 1. London: McBride, Nast & Company, 1913. I-III. Print.
