Riding Recollections

· DigiCat
Ebook
142
Pages
Eligible
Ratings and reviews aren’t verified  Learn More

About this ebook

In 'Riding Recollections,' George J. Whyte-Melville provides a thorough examination of the art and sport of horseback riding, specifically within the context of hunting. This text is a detailed guide that caters not only to the mechanics of horsemanship but more intricately to the symbiotic relationship between rider and steed. Melville's prose merges practical advice with narrative style, masterfully incorporating technical instruction with vivid illustrative examples. Set amid the broader literary tradition of Victorian sporting literature, the book stands out for its ten informative chapters, accompanied by illustrative artwork that enhances reader comprehension of the finer points of horse riding from choosing the right horse to adjusting one's riding technique for different terrains and hunts. George J. Whyte-Melville's literary endeavor emanates from an era where fox hunting and steeplechasing were not simply pastimes but integral elements of rural British culture. Himself a seasoned horseman and a fervent advocate for the bond between the hunter and his mount, Whyte-Melville's experiences lend authenticity and richness to his writing. His insights into the balance of kindness and firmness in training, the ethical use of riding equipment, and the cultivation of bravery and prudence in riders reflect a deep understanding of equestrian sports as well as his dedication to the tradition of fox hunting. 'Recollections' is a must-read for aficionados of equestrian history and for those seeking a comprehensive primer on hunting horsemanship. With its meticulous blending of practicality and prose, Whyte-Melville's work has resonated with horse enthusiasts and historians alike. As much a window into Victorian equine culture as it is a riding manual, 'Riding Recollections' endures as an essential volume in the equestrian's library, capturing the ethos of an era when horsemanship was both an art form and a cornerstone of sportsmanship.

About the author

George John Whyte-Melville (1821–1878) was a Scottish novelist of the Victorian era, and a talented amateur sportsman. Best known for his works related to horses and the sport of fox hunting, Whyte-Melville possessed a unique literary style that often reflected his passion for the outdoors and gentlemanly pursuits. 'Riding Recollections' (1868) serves as an eloquent testament to this, offering an insightful look into the equestrian practices of his time, interweaving personal anecdotes with advice and observations. His narratives typically combine romance with sporting adventure, capturing the imagination of his contemporaries with idyllic depictions of English country life. Whyte-Melville's contribution to literature also extends to poetry and historical novels, where he displayed a penchant for crafting narratives with meticulous attention to detail and a charismatic storytelling technique. The enduring appeal of his work lies in its ability to transport readers to the quintessential sporting scenes of the nineteenth century. As a result of his literary accomplishments, Whyte-Melville's prose has cemented him as a seminal figure in the genre of sporting literature, influencing not only his peers but also future generations of writers and enthusiasts of equine and sporting lore.

Rate this ebook

Tell us what you think.

Reading information

Smartphones and tablets
Install the Google Play Books app for Android and iPad/iPhone. It syncs automatically with your account and allows you to read online or offline wherever you are.
Laptops and computers
You can listen to audiobooks purchased on Google Play using your computer's web browser.
eReaders and other devices
To read on e-ink devices like Kobo eReaders, you'll need to download a file and transfer it to your device. Follow the detailed Help Center instructions to transfer the files to supported eReaders.