While in Madrid we decided to take in an event that has become one of the hallmarks of Spanish culture: The Bullfight. All of us were pretty excited, even though we didn't know exactly what to expect. I was hoping to see daring escapes from death by men in brightly colored costumes; following each one with a shout of "OLE!"
We did not get what we were hoping for. If you have ever been to a bullfight you will know it is really quite a depressing affair. First, six bullfighters team up on one animal confusing it and tiring it out. This stage is topped off when an armored, blindfolded horse his put in the bulls path of rage while it's rider jabs at the bulls neck with a large pointed spear. Then bullfighters get the bull to come at them, stepping out of the way at the last second and stabbing them in the neck with what are essentially huge darts. After this the bull is disoriented and groggy. Then the main event happens, 1 bullfighter gets the bull to go around him for a while before finally stabbing him in the neck with a long sword. If he is precise he can kill the bull in one shot, if not it can take 3-4. Then the dead bull is dragged off from the arena by horses and the whole process starts anew.
Although the bullfighters are undeniably talented in what the do the whole event seems a bit unfair overall. It amounts to 7-8 people with weapons ganging up on 1 confused bull. I am glad I can now say I have been to a bullfight but I probably will never go to one again.
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