Buskin

Webster's Dictionary

(1): (n.) A strong, protecting covering for the foot, coming some distance up the leg.

(2): (n.) A similar covering for the foot and leg, made with very thick soles, to give an appearance of elevation to the stature; - worn by tragic actors in ancient Greece and Rome. Used as a symbol of tragedy, or the tragic drama, as distinguished from comedy.

The Nuttall Encyclopedia

A kind of half-boot worn after the custom of hunters as part of the costume of actors in tragedy on the ancient Roman stage, and a synonym for tragedy.