Yes, historically shields were the staple. But that was because it would take much more (subjectively) skill to become a master at using a staff in combat than it took to use a large flat piece of wood for incoming attacks.
The best warriors out there did most of their damage with their shield though. Shields should have a damage modifier for shield bashes and shield charges, etc. In WoW, the warrior gets a charge ability, which was really cool, but for that charge I think it would make more sense for the charge to be shield-oriented. Think Captain America. <--- arguably the epitome of all mitigation tanks...look at his friggin shield!
haha
BUT, as an Inquisitor, even though we have been told many times that we would be able to tank as effectively as the other tanks, I still keep the idea on my mind that we will be a bit more situational...and so if it turns out I'm wrong then I will be pleasantly surprised. If I'm right, however, I won't be crushed. And if I am right, and Inquisitors are kept around because there are a crapload of casters in the world...then tanking with a defensive 2H weapon would make sense. Why would i need a shield against a wizard? If they can make a spear, or a staff that is made for defense instead of offense, that will be how I further "flavor" my character I think.
Mat's style of fighting was my favorite in that series, and Gambit was always my favorite X-Man. In Wheel of Time, there is a bit of lore about a guy named Jainn Farstrider I believe...and the only man to ever best him in a duel was a farmer with a staff. That was the lore the teacher told his students after a newb Mat Cauthon owns like 3 of them at once (you may not be there yet, if not I apologize)
I also played Asheron's Call for 4 years and my favorite weapon was the staff, but after about 90 levels it became clear the developers didn't like them...there were no good staffs in the game, so I respecced. My hope is that one day a staff-wielder can earn some respect from the gaming community as a risk-taker.
-Eclipse