A flap-dragon is a small, burning object set afloat in a glass of liquor, intended to be swallowed along with the drink in a single gulp.
Historically, a "flap-dragon" was a drinking game or stunt where a small, flammable item (often a raisin or similar combustible substance) was lit on fire and floated in a glass of alcohol. The challenge was to quickly drink the entire glass without burning oneself. This was considered a display of skill and bravado among drinkers. The term is mentioned in Shakespeare's Henry IV, Part 2.
Here's a breakdown:
- Combustible Object: Typically, this was a raisin or a small piece of something that could be easily lit on fire.
- Liquor: The burning object would be placed in a glass of alcoholic beverage.
- The Challenge: The drinker had to toss back the entire contents of the glass swiftly, extinguishing the flame and swallowing the burning object without getting burned.
- Dexterity: The act required some skill and timing to avoid injury.
In essence, a flap-dragon was a dangerous and somewhat theatrical drinking practice.
