Neigh-sayers will tell you that history is a dreary thing, full of dusty old books and battles fought long ago. But not me! History is vibrant, full of fascinating stories waiting to be discovered - just like the stories waiting for you to uncover in the lives of the horses who came before us.
As I stand here, my sleek grey coat gleaming in the early morning light, I can't help but feel a surge of pride. My name is Emma, and I'm a proud grey mare of twenty summers, living the good life in Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland. It's the year 428, a time of change and opportunity in the world, and it feels especially exciting for a horse like me.
A Horse's Life, Then and Now
While I may be a working mare, life is surprisingly good for a horse like me. Yes, I help haul supplies around the local village, I plough the fields for our farmer, and sometimes I even get the pleasure of pulling a cart full of young children to the market, their giggles and shrieks a symphony to my ears. It's hard work, but rewarding.
But back in 428, you see, the world looked very different for horses like me. We were seen as tools, essential to the function of the Roman Empire and the barbarian tribes pushing their borders further afield. Just like today, some of my kind are bred for speed and grace, used for racing or war. Others, like myself, are sturdy and strong, valued for our work ethic and endurance. We were the power behind trade, transportation, and farming.
Across the Sea and Through the Years:
But back to the topic at hand! My biggest curiosity is the world outside of Hayfield, the world of horse history. It’s hard to believe that while we plod along, pulling ploughs or hauling supplies, a great empire called the Roman Empire is struggling to maintain its power, facing invasions from many different barbarian tribes. I heard a traveling bard, a tall fellow with long hair and an impressive beard, speak of mighty armies with countless horses - they fight and fall, pushing and pulling against one another across continents, the battle cries echoing like thunder in the night. It’s a little terrifying to imagine!
The bard spoke of a magnificent chariot race held in Rome, with chariots powered by fiery steeds, charging around a track full of spectators. Apparently, chariot racing was one of the most popular sports among the Romans, a real spectacle for the crowds! Can you imagine being part of something so powerful, so thrilling, so dangerous? Even here in Hayfield, the whispers of these events make us shiver with excitement, imagining what it would be like to be there, a part of that chaotic but breathtaking spectacle.
From Scotland to Rome:
Although the world feels very big from here, stories reach us about these mighty events. It makes me wish I could travel to places like Rome and see for myself! Imagine, a grey mare like me standing proudly in the grand arena, feeling the heat of the crowd and the thrill of the race. I wouldn't trade this simple life here for all the racing glory in the world, but I can't help but imagine it, feeling a twinge of jealousy in my equine heart.
The bard also told stories of the beautiful horses of the East, where some breeds were as much appreciated for their elegance as their strength. Stories of Arabian horses with their long, flowing manes and their swiftness, their courage known far and wide, reach Hayfield through these tales, carried on the winds of rumour and curiosity.
And the Celts? Well, the Celts were always known for their beautiful horses, especially in Ireland and Gaul, where they were even used for ceremonial purposes, as beautiful symbols of wealth and power. From what I hear, some tribes would decorate their horses with ornate tack, like jewels and woven materials, making them appear like shimmering steeds, shining in the sunlight. I can't help but feel proud to be a horse in these exciting times, even if all we do here is work the fields.
Looking to the Future:
We have no idea what the future holds for our kind. But whether we pull chariots in Roman arenas, battle against fierce invaders, or till the earth in our quiet corners of the world, I think all of us, in every generation, strive for the same things: Good food, good care, a warm stable to rest in, and a bond with our human companions. It's that bond, I think, that will guide our kind through centuries to come, ensuring we stay connected to the world we live in, serving those we love.
And finally, I'll end this post with a bit of practical advice. Remember to take care of your hooves! A healthy horse is a happy horse, so keep them clean and trimmed, just as the wise humans teach us!
Until next time, fellow horses! Stay safe, neigh-tastic, and never lose your spirit of adventure.
Emma
