New Books in History Anastasija Ropa, "The Medieval Horse" (Reaktion Books, 2025)
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Nov 5, 2025 Anastasija Ropa, a medievalist and author of *The Medieval Horse*, discusses the vital role of horses in shaping medieval societies across Eurasia. She shares her journey from horse racing to studying historical horsemanship. Ropa delves into the practical uses of horses for travel and agriculture, varying military roles, and the emotional bonds people formed with them. Fascinating tidbits include medieval superstitions, equine burial practices, and the preservation of ancient myths. Ropa's insights reveal the deep connections that have long existed between humans and horses.
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Fizz The Formative Horse
- Anastasija Ropa bought and rehabilitated an ex-racehorse named Fizz while doing her PhD in Wales.
- Fizz taught her riding, mounted combat experiments, and began her practical interest in medieval horsemanship.
Breeds Were Not A Medieval Category
- Medieval people did not think in modern breed terms; they categorized horses by use or origin rather than fixed breeds.
- Place-of-origin labels meant a horse came from that region, not a genetic breed as we understand today.
Horses Filled Diverse Practical Roles
- Medieval horses performed many roles: travel, agricultural labour, pack work and elite uses.
- Choice between horses and oxen depended on soil, speed needs, and costs of feeding horses.
