Today when we think of domestic cats, we recall the familiar hearthside companion and the mischievous playmate. It is difficult to comprehend that in the past the animal has played a fundamental role in the development of European and Western civilization. The human relationship to the cat has been important for most of the last four millennia.
In this beautifully illustrated book, Donald Engels charts the history and significance of the cat from ancient Egypt to the middle ages, exploring such phenomena as the worship of the Egyptian cat goddess Bastet, the infamous cat massacres and witch hunts of the thirteenth century, and the role of the cat in combating disease and starvation. Classical Cats presents a unique and entertaining view of the vicissitudes of the cat in history.

Reviews

'Well-written and researched - and stunningly illustrated.' - Publishers Weekly

'Deeply researched and profoundly enlightening. For anyone who loves cats, this book will come as a revelation ... a compelling read ... it is direct, devoid of sentiment and deeply moving. It left me with much to ponder upon.' - Sir Roy Strong, Country Life

'Donald Engels' book is a delight for all cat lovers, and an extremely well written and informative source for those who would dig deeper into 'cat lore' and their history in relation to Man.' - Minerva

'what a story, my favourite read this year. It has adjusted my attitude to the sacred, the classical.....everywhere' - Victoria Ellis Darlington Times

Book Information
ISBN 9780415261623
Author Donald W. Engels
Format Paperback
Page Count 240
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 440g