We've sort of gone from "absurdities" to the lack of historical accuracy in Bogle's modern use of the Gallipoli "myth" (or, popular understanding as disticnt from literal truth) in crafting an anti-war song. But we tend to rely on oral folk-memory, as set down in some contemporary songs, for our knowledge of events that "the victors" didn't write in the official history (like "Dunlavin Green", say). I wonder did earlier songsters take liberties for the sake of effect, or are their songs scrupulously accurate because of their memorializing function. And what about Homer's Catalogue of Ships?

By the way, a "Beaver" was a hat, which you could "cock up bravely". Derek Hill the harper used to delight in announcing the title of that melody, especially in the states.