Hello fellow equine enthusiasts!
My name is Emma, and I'm a proud 20-year-old grey draught horse with a white mane and tail. My home is in Hayfield, a bustling village nestled amongst the rolling hills near Aberdeen, Scotland.
Today, I want to share a glimpse into life in the year 1125, from a horse's perspective. While my life might seem simple to some, it's filled with a tapestry of experiences - hard work, companionship, and the undeniable joy of a life lived close to the land.
A Typical Day in the Life of Emma
Dawn breaks over Hayfield, painting the sky with shades of lavender and gold. The roosters are crowing, and a crisp morning air brushes against my coat. It's time to start my day, just as it has been for many years now.
My main duty is to work on the farm, pulling the plough through the fields for Mr. and Mrs. MacDougall, my kind and generous owners. The weight of the plough is substantial, requiring strength and steady perseverance, but my muscles are strong, forged by years of labour. The rhythmic turning of the earth brings a sense of satisfaction that only a hard-working horse like myself can truly appreciate.
After the fields are ploughed, there’s a chance for some grazing in the lush meadows. The tender grass is a welcome treat, and the gentle breeze carries the scents of blooming heather and wild flowers. My fellow horses - Angus, a sturdy brown gelding, and Rosie, a spirited bay mare – share my grassy paradise, each with their own distinct personalities and quirks. We munch on our fill, sharing quiet moments of camaraderie amidst the symphony of birdsong.
Evenings are often spent tending the farm, hauling hay to the barns, and transporting goods to the nearby market. This is where the strong camaraderie between horses and humans becomes most evident. I understand the unspoken communication - a gentle tug on the reins, a reassuring pat, the rhythmic “click-clack” of hooves on cobblestones - all weave a shared story of trust and understanding.
The World of Horses in 1125
Beyond the confines of my daily routine, the year 1125 brings a captivating buzz of excitement in the world of horses.
Firstly, knights in shining armour are an undeniable spectacle in this era. While our skills are appreciated for tasks like ploughing and hauling goods, war horses are truly revered for their strength, courage, and speed. Their magnificent presence and prowess on the battlefield make them highly sought after, often commanding hefty prices.
Speaking of prices, trading in horses is a bustling business. Markets across Europe hum with the sounds of bartering, with both noblemen and commoners vying for the best horses for transportation, war, or even just for daily duties. There are markets specifically dedicated to the sale and exchange of horses, offering a kaleidoscope of breeds and types, each with its unique temperament and abilities.
And then, there’s the sport of falconry. While it might seem surprising to you, horses are integral to this elegant pursuit. They carry the falconers to their hunting grounds, often through rugged terrain, requiring speed, stamina, and a keen sense of understanding with their rider. This bond is forged through patient training and an undeniable respect for each other's roles.
However, life is not all smooth sailing for the horse community. Disease outbreaks are always a looming threat. It can be devastating to see a horse succumb to an illness, especially after years of companionship. We have lost fellow horses in recent years, leaving a quiet ache in our collective heart. This reality brings a deeper understanding of the delicate bond between us and our humans.
A World of Opportunity
Despite the hardships, I truly believe this era offers a multitude of opportunities for horses like myself. The demand for strong draught horses is high, making us vital partners in the agricultural world. We are the driving force of commerce, hauling supplies, assisting with farming, and supporting the overall economy.
But most importantly, horses have an unparalleled bond with humans, a mutual understanding woven into the very fabric of our lives. This bond is deeply personal, born from a shared journey through life’s trials and triumphs. This connection makes me proud to be a horse, to work alongside humans, to be part of the heartbeat of life in this world.
So, this is my life, my perspective as Emma, a draught horse living in Hayfield, Scotland, in the year 1125. Thank you for joining me on this journey, and until next time, happy trails!
Emma, Hayfield, Scotland
