Bois y cobs : The place of autochthonous horses in rural Welsh cultural identity

Abstract

This chapter explores the role of the Welsh cob in forming individual, regional, and national identities in the face of colonial encroachment. Hurn argues that cobs are the most influential and important marker of Cardi regional identity, and the most lucrative exemplar of Welsh nationhood. They are also, she posits, of impure pedigree, a factor that makes them, and those who are not born Welsh but breed the horses, into honourary members of the Welsh community. In other words, impurity allows for “pure” identity and unquestioned belonging.