Final answer:
When Inigo, Fezzik, and Westley make the guards flee, it highlights that psychological dominance and strategic acumen are key in combat, not just physical strength. Successful warriors understand the importance of morale, strategy, and the psychological aspect of warfare.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Inigo, Fezzik, and Westley approach the castle's gate and the sixty security guards flee instead of fight, it reveals aspects of the nature of combat and the psychological elements at play in warfare. This incident demonstrates that the most formidable warriors are not necessarily those who have the greatest physical strength or numbers, but those who possess a psychological edge or reputation that can instill fear in their opponents. This is further supported through historical and literary examples that show how morale, leadership, strategic advantage, and the element of surprise can turn the tide of battle and lead to victory.
The passages provided also suggest that discipline and understanding when to fight are crucial for a warrior's success. Strategic acumen, along with the ability to inspire confidence in allies and dread in enemies, often determines who is most likely to win in combat. Such capability to influence the battlements indirectly is seen in the maxims that guide warriors to seize opportunities and to know the strengths and weaknesses of both their own forces and their adversaries.
Therefore, in the context of the question, it can be inferred that victory is often decided not only by the physical might of warriors but also by their military capacity, strategic planning, and the psychological impact they have on their adversaries.