Hello, my fellow equines! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood draught horse from Hayfield, near Aberdeen, Scotland. As we gallop into the month of April, the world around me is a beautiful symphony of emerald green shoots bursting forth from the earth and the playful cries of nesting birds. I thought I'd share a snippet of my own story with you all - it's 378 AD, you know, a rather remarkable time to be a horse!
Before we delve into the events of this year, I wanted to explain a little about my life. I'm a grey mare, standing tall at almost 17 hands, with a magnificent mane and tail as white as the snowdrift you’d see on the Cairngorms in winter.
My human companion, young Fiona, treats me like a queen! She brushes my coat with meticulous care, ensuring it shines like the moonlit dew on a summer morning. She whispers soft promises to me, telling me of the adventures we'll have together - a bond stronger than the iron that binds us when I pull the plough. It’s my duty to pull the plough across Fiona’s family’s field, a task I take great pride in. To watch the grain grow and see the family feast thanks to my strength fills my heart with a kind of joy only a hard-working draught horse can know.
Horses in 378 AD - A Look at Life Beyond My Fields:
As I said, I find the life I lead here in Hayfield enriching, but my adventures in knowledge and world exploration begin every time I munch on hay at Fiona's father's feet. The tales they share paint a magnificent picture of life beyond the fields. It's remarkable how news spreads from village to village, carried on the backs of horses and spread through the human rumour mill.
The Roman Empire - Where Empires Meet Horses:
First, let me paint you a picture of the world around us. As we're situated here in the northern edge of Britain, a large portion of our news originates from the powerful Roman Empire. For years now, these mighty people, riding proud warhorses, have been steadily spreading their influence through the lands. Their iron grip tightens as they venture across the seas, carving paths through unknown territories, bringing their customs and laws. They've even reached the island of Britannia (which, sadly, is the only part of Britain we Scots consider to be British! Don't tell anyone, but they also have their noses in our affairs across the Scottish border, though they call it the "Antonine Wall.")
We Scottish horses haven’t always been comfortable with this invasion, let me tell you! The arrival of these iron-clad horsemen has brought with it change – sometimes welcomed, sometimes not. As much as our fellow horses may try to avoid their presence, they can't help but play a role in their schemes. Their powerful, swift breeds carry mighty riders across vast distances. This might make many of our kind shiver a bit. The Roman chariot races are also a popular source of entertainment – thrilling spectacles for both human and equine alike. It takes immense strength and bravery to take a sharp turn with the wind whipping against your face and your hooves scraping the dirt, and many a spirited horse shines in this competitive arena!
From Racing to War: The Roman Empire and its Horses
They’ve made quite a splash on the world scene. Did you know they’re building a great wall? This, they tell me, will protect the Roman world from fierce Picts, the people we often find stealing our precious hay, the cheeky chaps! To keep that mighty wall secure, the Romans use thousands upon thousands of horses. It seems that without these powerful steeds, their grand dreams would crumble.
My grandfather once told me a story of how Roman legionaries, brave soldiers who fight alongside mighty war horses, clashed with fierce Germanic tribes not too long ago. We heard that their cavalry units, powerful legions of horse-borne warriors, were formidable. Their use of cavalry formations, intricate manoeuvres meant to overwhelm the enemy, left them in a strong position. The story goes that the horses were an essential element to the Romans’ victories in this conflict, allowing them to overpower the enemies and win!
Horse Breeding: Shaping our Destiny:
But here's something fascinating! The Roman presence has brought new ways of breeding our equine kind! I've heard whispers about a 'Thoroughbred’ breed, strong and nimble with racing blood coursing through its veins, They believe they can create a perfect breed to rule all battles. These horses, strong yet graceful, move like a silent breeze - a sight to behold! While they’re busy in the Roman lands, it seems some breeders here are paying attention too. It wouldn't surprise me to see the future filled with these new breeds. They may change how we carry ourselves as horses – but, to be honest, a little bit of change is never a bad thing.
What else is going on? A Brief Peek Beyond:
News of horse related activities doesn’t only arrive on the Roman trade winds. I also get whispers from the humans who journey from our little village to nearby settlements. The news isn't always grand conquests, but every horse tale, whether big or small, is worth sharing!
They've just introduced new stirrups and saddles to make their journey on horseback more comfortable. And from what I hear, their saddles are softer and more accommodating to the equine spine, ensuring longer and more enjoyable rides. Now those humans are really spoiling us!
On the other side of the globe, horses have a prominent role in the rich culture of the ancient Chinese people. While the Romans rely heavily on the mighty steed, it's also used in other fascinating ways. Did you know the Chinese are experts at riding, driving horses and also using them for agricultural purposes?
This year marks a momentous occasion - the beginning of the Eastern Jin Dynasty in China. I heard a farmer saying that the ruler, Emperor Xiaowu, is known for his exceptional horsemanship and appreciation for fine horses!
Final Words - The Majesty of the Horse in the 4th Century:
As you can see, despite being a small draught mare, I take pride in my knowledge and enjoy learning everything I can about our fellow horses around the world. While the 4th century is shaping the destiny of horses as we know it, remember we are powerful, majestic beings who stand side-by-side with humans. The journey we share is vast and beautiful, full of incredible discoveries, changing times, and triumphs over adversity. It’s not about being fast or slow, or about being a fierce warrior or a loyal working steed – it’s about finding our own place in this wonderful world we inhabit together. And with every sunrise, every sunset, the horse continues to remain an indispensable part of this world.
Until next time, my dear equine companions! And if you have any fascinating stories or interesting bits of information, do share! Every equine tale, however grand or humble, has the power to enlighten and inspire. Stay safe, happy, and, as always, remember to gallop strong!
Yours truly,
Emma, the Grey Mare from Hayfield, near Aberdeen.
