In German universities of the 19th and early 20th centuries, dueling with sabers (Mensur) was a common practice among students, especially those in elite fraternities. These duels were not about personal disputes but followed strict rules: participants stood their ground without dodging or retreating, enduring strikes as a test of resilience. The resulting facial scars, known as Schmiss, were seen as marks of honor, particularly among future military officers and government officials. Many of them later served in the German officer corps, where such scars were considered a sign of discipline and courage.
By the mid-20th century, Mensur had largely declined. Changing social attitudes and the fading of aristocratic traditions made these duels less relevant, and facial scars lost their former prestige. While some student fraternities in Germany still practice Mensur today, it is now more of a symbolic ritual rather than a path to status or recognition.
