 The technical evolution and design of Spartan shields evolved from bashing and shield wall tactics, and were of such great importance in the Spartan army that while losing a sword and a spear was an exception, to lose a shield was a sign of disgrace.Not only does it protect the user, but it also protects the whole phalanx formation.To come home without the shield was the mark of a deserter; "rhipsaspia" or "dropping the shield", was a synonym for desertion in the field.