Discover the origins, historical context, and contemporary relevance of the phrase 'bag and baggage,' a term rich with military history and literary significance.
The phrase “bag and baggage” refers to all of one’s belongings, typically in the context of departing with them. It conveys the notion of leaving a place with everything one owns, often implying a complete and final departure.
The origins of “bag and baggage” can be traced back to military terminology in the fifteenth century. Initially, it described an army’s property, signifying that the army was retreating but not surrendering any possessions to the enemy. The phrase’s alliterative nature has appealed to many writers, including William Shakespeare. In As You Like It, Touchstone remarks, “Come, shepherd, let us make an honourable retreat; though not with bag and baggage, yet with scrip and scrippage,” referring to a departure with one’s purse and its contents. Over time, the phrase evolved to denote a complete clearing out, devoid of its original honorable connotation.
“Bag and baggage” carries the semantic implication of thoroughness and completeness in departure. It suggests that nothing is left behind, reinforcing the idea of a total exit. The phrase has been used in both literal and metaphorical contexts, where it can denote not only physical belongings but also emotional or metaphorical baggage.
In contemporary culture, “bag and baggage” is often employed in literature and social discourse to describe a decisive and comprehensive departure. It has appeared in various literary works, such as Samuel Richardson’s Pamela (1741), where it is used to emphasize the finality of a character’s departure: “‘Bag and baggage,’ said she, ‘I’m glad you’re going.’” The phrase continues to be relevant in modern usage, often invoked to describe situations where individuals leave with all their possessions, whether in personal relationships or professional contexts.
In professional contexts, “bag and baggage” might refer to an employee leaving a company with all personal effects. Socially, it can describe someone exiting a relationship or household. In literary contexts, the phrase often emphasizes the totality of a character’s departure.
The phrase “bag and baggage” maintains moderate contemporary relevance, particularly in literary and formal contexts. Its evocative imagery and historical roots contribute to its continued usage. Durability: ★★★☆☆
“Come, shepherd, let us make an honourable retreat; though not with bag and baggage, yet with scrip and scrippage.” - William Shakespeare, As You Like It
“‘Bag and baggage,’ said she, ‘I’m glad you’re going.’” - Samuel Richardson, Pamela (1741)