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What even is Bullfighting?
Bullfighting is an age-old tradition in Spain, dating back to at least the 18th century. It involves a matador and a bull, fighting each other in a ring, with the goal of either killing or tiring out the animal. The matador typically uses a cape and sword to control the bull, while professional bullfighters use lances as well. This practice has become controversial over time, with animal rights activists arguing that it’s cruel and unnecessary for entertainment purposes. Despite this criticism, bullfighting tourism also remains an important source of economic wealth for many Spaniards. This compounds with the cultural heritage of bullfighting to make the issue even more ingrained in Spanish society.
Early History of Bullfighting in Spain
Bullfighting is a sport dating back to Roman times. It originated from gladiator games and developed over time into the traditional Spanish style of bullfighting we know today. In this version of the sport, a matador and their team of banderilleros skillfully face off against a bull in an arena filled with thousands of spectators. It didn’t develop into this structure immediately though, as it developed over the course of Spain’s tumultuous history.
When the Umayyad Caliphate conquered Spain, bullfighting faced enormous pressure as a cultural institution. The Arab prohibition of bullfighting in Spain had been a source of contention between cultures for centuries. The Arab upper class Originally outlawed bullfighting as heresy, a pagan celebration and something strongly discouraged. This did not stop Spanish Christians from continuing to practice the sport, however; they used it as a way to gain prestige and express their defiance towards the ruling class.
The Catholic Church has had a complex relationship with bullfighting. In the 16th century, Pope Pius V issued an edict banning the practice due to its ties to paganism and the danger it posed to participants. The church excommunicated anyone who sponsored, watched, or participated in a bullfight. This did not stop Spanish and Portuguese bullfighters from continuing the tradition covertly. Pope Gregory XIII eventually rewarded their efforts when he relaxed this penalty.
A Changing Institution
Many call Joaquín Rodríguez Costillares the founder of modern Spanish-style bullfighting. He devised a ‘cuadrillas tradition’ in which teams of two or three banderilleros and two picadors taunt bulls, still practiced today. The Bourbons, a European dynasty of French origin, first came to power in Spain in the 18th century and banned bullfighting once again. However, due to the influence of figures like Costillares, and the practice’s growing popularity, it never fully faded away as hoped.
Costillares’ influence is still felt today as bullfighting continues to be an important part of Spanish culture and heritage. While it can be difficult for some people with strong religious values to accept the tradition of bullfighting, it is clear that Costillares’ had an enduring impact on Spain’s pastime and helped it grow into the force it would become.
The popularity of Bullfighting in Spain
Bullfighting has been a popular pastime in Spain since the 18th century, and it continues to captivate audiences today. What is it about this controversial sport that resonates with so many Spaniards?
To start, bullfighting speaks to a deeply embedded sense of courage and pride revered in Spanish culture. Professional matadors must be brave and bold in order to successfully battle their opponents, which can be quite intimidating for some. Moreover, many associated an element of tradition with bullfighting; there is a reverence there in connection with an overall sense of Spanish identity that allows many to overlook its more brutal aspects.
Arguments in Favor of Bullfighting
Many Spaniards regard Bullfighting as an intangible part of their cultural heritage. People admire Professional matadors for their bravado and skill during competitions, while fans enjoy the spectacle as a form of entertainment. It also provides economic opportunities for people involved in the bullfighting industry, such as butchers and other craftsmen who manufacture specialized items for use in the ring. Furthermore, some believe that it is more humane than other animal sports, such as hunting or rodeo events.
Bullfighting as a part of Cultural Heritage
At its core, bullfighting is an art form where matadors use their skill and courage to outwit and outmaneuver their opponents. It’s also a physically demanding sport, requiring great strength and agility from its participants. Despite this, the mental fortitude required to succeed at the highest level can make it a captivating spectacle for those who watch it.
They treat the bulls well before killing them
The bulls used in Spanish-style bullfighting are bred specifically for the purpose, and while they may suffer some injury during their brief time in the ring, they are generally treated quite well before being killed. Matadors often spend months training and preparing for their performance, and give these animals a great deal of respect. They are also fed a specific diet to ensure they remain healthy when entering the ring.
The bulls also receive training from experienced matadors to help them adapt to the environment of the bullring. In addition, the matadors will sometimes give the bulls treats or rub their heads before a fight as a show of respect for their courage. Although this may seem cruel in some cases, it is important to keep in mind that these animals have been bred for centuries specifically for this purpose. In other words, although it is still an animal being killed, it is done so with respect and dignity that would not be afforded if they were simply slaughtered without ceremony.
Arguments Against Bullfighting
The tradition of bullfighting has long been a source of controversy, with many people arguing that it is cruel and unethical. Animal rights activists point out the obvious suffering caused to the bulls during the fights, as well as their inability to defend themselves against the matadors. Moreover, there are concerns about how these animals are treated in between performances, and if they receive adequate nutrition or medical treatment if needed.
In addition to animal cruelty, some argue that bullfighting presents a dangerous environment for spectators due to its unpredictable nature. There have been numerous cases of severe injury or even death resulting from errant bulls running into spectators.
Finally, some view bullfighting as a symbol of Spanish culture that is outdated and should no longer be supported by society. They feel that Spain should move away from this form of entertainment and focus on more modern forms of recreation instead.
Animal Rights Activists and Bullfighting
The debate over bullfighting in Spain has been a contentious one, with animal rights activists arguing that the sport is cruel and unnecessary, while traditionalists defend its place as part of Spanish culture. In the 18th century, professional matadors rose to prominence within the bullfighting industry; however, in the 21st century, their role has become increasingly contested and viewed by many as irrelevant and archaic. As more recognition for the rights of animals has increased throughout the ages, less and less people can fully condone a tradition which involves the killing of an animal for little more than entertainment.
Dangers for Bullfighters too
Bullfighting is a dangerous sport for the bull, but it can also be incredibly dangerous for the matadors. Professional bullfighters must learn to read and react quickly to the bulls’ movements, making split-second decisions that could mean life or death. The risks of serious injury are always present when entering the ring with a large, powerful animal. Even experienced bullfighters have been thrown in the air and gored by a bull’s horns, leading to long hospital stays and even permanent disabilities.
The danger of this profession is further compounded by the fact that bullfighting is becoming increasingly unpopular in many countries due to its perceived cruelty to animals. This has resulted in fewer performances and less money for professional bullfighters as well as decreased safety regulations at events. It is essential to focus more on creating safe environments for both bulls and their handlers if the sport is to continue into the future at all.
Bullfighting in Spain Today
In recent years, anti-bullfighting political movements have been gaining traction across Spain. These groups vehemently oppose the tradition of bullfighting and advocate for its end. They argue that this sport is cruel and inhumane, inflicting pain and suffering upon bulls and other animals used in the spectacle. Despite their efforts, however, bullfighting remains a popular activity in many parts of Spain where. It is difficult to imagine eliminating these traditions overnight or without considerable pushback from those who support them.
In recent times, cases for and against bullfighting and bullfighting tourism went to court. These have had mixed results. Recent rulings have protected it under the label of cultural heritage while other rulings have imposed new regulations on the practice. Most Spanish-speaking countries have already banned or phased out Bullfighting. It only exists in Spain, Portugal, Southern France, Mexico, and a few others. In many ways, Spain itself is already lagging behind its former colonies in ridding itself of the practice.
Conclusion
Bullfighting in Spain is a subject destined to be debated for some time. Its defenders argue that it should remain emblematic of their cultural identity. Meanwhile, its detractors point out the cruelty inflicted upon animals. Ultimately, however, public opinion will determine what becomes of this centuries-old tradition. Until then, it seems that both sides are unlikely to reach an agreement anytime soon. Still, it’s important to remember that regardless of opinion, there must be an understanding that change is a slow process.
If I were to put in my personal opinion, as I tried to avoid doing for the majority of this piece, I would argue against bullfighting. I recall seeing one in person in Seville and the experience, while impressive, couldn’t be worth the life of the animal. Even more, bulls goring, stabbing and throwing around men didn’t feel like art to me. However, it’s hard for me to disregard other cultures’ traditions. So, instead, I leave you with this piece devoted to both sides of the coin, with the hope that you will come to a conclusion for yourself as to where you stand.
