Satchel (bag)

Man carrying a satchel

A satchel is a bag, often with a strap. The strap is often worn so that it diagonally crosses the body, with the bag hanging on the opposite hip, rather than hanging directly down from the shoulder. They are tradionally used for carrying books.

The main difference between a satchel and a briefcase is that a satchel is soft-sided. Also, satchels often have straps while briefcases usually don't.

History

The satchel became a fashion accessory and was popular during the 17th century.^{[citation needed]} The satchel predates the backpack.^{[citation needed]}

In popular culture

In literature, the satchel is often associated with the classic image of the English schoolboy: "And then the whining school-boy, with his satchel" is a phrase from Shakespeare's monologue All the world's a stage.

Jack Bauer, in 24, is often seen carrying a satchel.

Indiana Jones always carries a satchel as part of his outfit, alongside his whip and hat (the prop used in the movies was a 1943 Mark VII gas mask bag).

In their song :Jennifer Eccles", The Hollies sing about "carrying her satchel".

The satchel is referenced in the movie The Hangover, where the character Alan Garner says "it's not a purse, it's called a satchel. Indiana Jones wears one." The bag he was actually carrying was a Roots Village Bag. Following the attention due to the movie, Roots released a larger bag, called simply The Satchel, however the design of both the Village Bag and The Satchel are not the same as the traditional satchel.

In Tangled, the satchel that Rapunzel's stolen crown is carried in is a central item in the story.

Satchel is also the nickname of a member of the Peachtree Road Doxology youth choir.

See also

• Sling bag
• Messenger bag
• Briefcase
• Backpack
• Purse / Handbag