Sheep and Man

by M.L. Ryder

Apart from the dog, the sheep was the first animal domesticated by man (in about 10,000 BC). This pioneering book on the history of our highly profitable relationship combines evidence from every possible source - anthropology, geography, folklore, linguistics, biology and agriculture. The interests of scientists, archaeologists, historians - and general readers - are all kept in view. Wool has been of prime importance throughout man's history, from ancient Babylonia ('Land of Wool') to modern Australia, and a major theme of this book is the author's own research in the variety of fleeces developed by selective breeding. Never before has the sheep, or indeed any domestic animal, been treated on such a wide chronological and geographical scale.

846 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1983

About the author

Born Michael Lawson Ryder.

Also wrote as Michael L. Ryder: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...

Reviews

[Ietrio · Rating 1 out of 5]

2024-10-21: sounds like a load of academic crap from someone who did not care about sheep, but has seen a lot of pictures.

[Deborah Robson · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's true, I haven't read every page yet, but I've read a lot of it. This is an absolutely amazing book about the history of sheep throughout time and around the world. Before it was reissued, I used to get it from interlibrary loan all the time. As soon as Duckworth brought out the new edition, I ordered a copy, despite the price.

Michael Ryder combines clear writing and explanation with original research and notes from his travel into an astonishingly wide-ranging discussion of all aspects of sheep: morphology, archaeology, husbandry practices, breed development, you name it.

This is one of the most comprehensive books on any topic that I have ever seen.

It isn't perfect. If we asked a book this ambitious to be perfect, it would never get written. There's a mention of the crocheted shawls of Shetland (they're knitted). In one instance, Ryder was given some misidentified wool samples (all too easy to have happen); he corrected his assessment in a later publication when he discovered the problem. Other, far more complicated, items that I have researched in depth through other sources have all checked out.

Sheep and Man is the first place I go with questions about sheep history, development, and husbandry. Wow, what a book. I'm in awe. Even after many years' acquaintance.

[Spellbind Consensus]

Major Themes and Content:

Historical Domestication: Ryder traces the domestication of sheep, dating back around 10,000 years, to the Near East during the Neolithic Revolution. He examines how the domestication of sheep played a critical role in early human societies, providing a sustainable source of food (meat, milk) and raw materials (wool, skins). He also details the different breeds of sheep that emerged from selective breeding, which enhanced various traits such as wool quality, meat production, and hardiness.

Cultural and Economic Importance: The book highlights how sheep have been at the heart of numerous civilizations. For example, ancient Mesopotamians and Egyptians revered sheep, while their wool was one of the first fibers spun and woven into cloth, supporting the rise of early textile industries. Sheep also figure prominently in religious and cultural rituals, appearing in texts such as the Bible, Greek mythology, and literature throughout the ages.

Sheep and Agricultural Practices: Ryder delves into how sheep farming (pastoralism) has shaped land use, economy, and agricultural practices worldwide. In medieval Europe, for instance, wool became an essential commodity, driving the economies of countries like England and Spain. Sheep’s ability to graze on marginal lands and survive in varied climates made them a crucial asset in agriculture, especially in regions unsuitable for other livestock or crops.

Biological Evolution of Sheep: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to understanding the biology of sheep, from their wool types to their digestive systems. Ryder provides detailed information on the evolution of sheep’s wool and its significance in human development, noting how selective breeding created fine wool-producing breeds, such as the Merino, which revolutionized the textile industry.

Wool Industry: The development of the wool trade is a focal point, particularly its impact on global economies during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Ryder explains how the trade in woolen textiles became a cornerstone of wealth in Europe, leading to industrialization. He explores the technological advancements in spinning and weaving wool and their role in shaping modern manufacturing processes.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability: The ecological impact of sheep farming is also covered, with discussions on both its benefits and detriments to the environment. While sheep grazing can be beneficial for certain ecosystems, overgrazing has led to environmental degradation in some areas, causing soil erosion and loss of biodiversity. Ryder touches on modern challenges in sheep farming, including sustainable practices and genetic advancements in sheep breeds to improve productivity without compromising environmental health.

Sheep Breeding and Genetics: The book dives into the scientific advances in sheep breeding, including genetics and artificial selection. Ryder discusses the importance of genetic diversity in maintaining healthy sheep populations and improving desirable traits such as disease resistance, wool quality, and reproductive efficiency.

Sheep in Art, Literature, and Society: Ryder also explores the representation of sheep in culture and art, showing how they have been depicted in works of art, literature, and folklore. From religious sacrifices to pastoral imagery in poetry and painting, sheep have long held symbolic significance. Ryder connects these cultural aspects with the practical roles sheep have played in human society.

Conclusion:

In “Sheep and Man”, Michael Ryder presents an interdisciplinary approach that spans anthropology, history, biology, and economics to offer a nuanced understanding of the complex and symbiotic relationship between sheep and humans. The book underscores how sheep have been pivotal to human civilization’s progress, from the dawn of agriculture to the modern industrial era. Ryder’s work remains a foundational text for anyone interested in the history of domesticated animals, agricultural practices, and the interplay between nature and human development.

[Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t so much read the information in the origional version of this as absorb it as an object. I consulted it a lot during 3rd year. Now I knit and spin I really wish I had chance to get my hands on it again.

[Kent · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well, no, I didn't read all 900 pages of archaeology 'n stuff. But I got the idea, and it was fun.

[Petra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant