A Short History of the World According to Sheep

Synopsis

'This book deserves a place in your bookcase next to Harari's Sapiens. It's every bit as fascinating and is surely destined to be just as successful' Julian Norton From the plains of ancient Mesopotamia to the vast sheep farms of modern-day Australia, sheep have been central to the human story. Since our our Neolithic ancestors' first forays into sheep-rearing nearly 11,000 years ago, these remarkable animals have fed us, clothed us, changed our diet and language and financed the conquest of large swathes of the earth. Sally Coulthard weaves this fascinating story into a vivid and colourful tapestry of engaging anecdotes and extraordinary ovine facts, whose multiple strands celebrate just how pivotal these woolly animals are to almost every aspect of human society and culture. This title was published also in the United States under the title Follow the Flock. 'A snappy, stimulating book, and certainly not just for shepherds' Mail on Sunday 'Full of fascinating social history' Independent 'You won't look at a sheep in the same way again' Country Living

Summary

Chapter 1: The Sheep as a Global Animal

* Traces the spread of sheep from their origin in Central Asia to their global distribution today.
* Discusses the significance of sheep in various cultures, from ancient Egypt to modern Australia.
* Example: The use of sheep wool in the iconic Burberry trench coat.

Chapter 2: The Sheep and the Shepherd

* Explores the relationship between shepherds and their flocks, emphasizing the importance of trust and interdependence.
* Examines the role of sheep in pastoral societies, such as the Bedouins and the Mongols.
* Example: The ancient Greek legend of Paris, a shepherd who dared to judge the beauty of the goddesses.

Chapter 3: The Sheep as a Commodity

* Discusses the economic importance of sheep, from their meat and wool to their use as currency.
* Traces the history of wool production, from the Phoenicians to the British Industrial Revolution.
* Example: The Merino sheep, renowned for its fine wool, which played a crucial role in the development of Australia's economy.

Chapter 4: The Sheep as a Symbol

* Analyzes the symbolic meaning of sheep in different contexts, such as religion, art, and literature.
* Examines the association of sheep with innocence, sacrifice, and vulnerability.
* Example: The depiction of the Lamb of God in Christian symbolism.

Chapter 5: The Sheep and the Environment

* Highlights the impact of sheep grazing on ecosystems, both positive and negative.
* Discusses the role of sheep in controlling vegetation and maintaining biodiversity.
* Example: The use of sheep to manage fire-prone landscapes in Australia.

Chapter 6: The Sheep in the Future

* Contemplates the potential future of sheep farming in light of changing climate and consumer preferences.
* Explores sustainable shepherding practices and the development of alternative protein sources.
* Example: The growing demand for plant-based meat alternatives, which could potentially reduce the global sheep population.

Conclusion:

* Summarizes the key themes from each chapter and their relevance to the history of humanity.
* Emphasizes the enduring significance of sheep in shaping our world, from the clothes we wear to the food we eat to the stories we tell.
* Example: The enduring popularity of "Mary Had a Little Lamb," a children's song that celebrates the bond between a sheep and its caretaker.