Last night we saw War Horse, which was amazing and my favorite play so far, thanks to my love of historical fiction. I left with chills as the movement of the horses was ethereal. Today, I felt inspired to find something that truly represents this play well. As I walked through the halls of the Victoria and Albert Museum, I could think of nothing better than a literal horse.
Within the play, there are historical representations of a time in Europe when horses were essential to everyday life on the farm and used in war, as modern advancements had not yet been developed. Horses were used by soldiers before modern military technology existed. This play is set in WWI and shows the battles that soldiers and their animals went through physically and mentally, and how important relationships are between them. Horses during this time were also used to plow fields, labor for farms, and as companions. Considering the importance of horses, and the main character, Albert’s best friend, choosing a horse seemed fitting.
The picture I took shows a man riding his beloved horse with his battle gear on, representing the play’s time period. The military outfit the man has on in the picture, as well as the riding gear the horse has on, shows combat-like symbolism. Joey, Albert’s horse in the play, was his companion and what Albert used as motivation to fight in the war. Albert did not have to go fight, but did so to find his horse and friend he lost to his dad’s “need” for money and inability to keep promises. The horse in this picture and the man have a relationship much like Albert and his horse did; they are loyal.
This sculpture teaches us that horses were used for many reasons and were necessary during this time period. They were not only used as a tool but also served as loyal friends who could impact those around them deeply. This is seen through Albert and Joey’s relationship, which was deeper than that of an animal and its owner.
Theatre in London U of A 