Bullfighting is a traditional Spanish spectacle that involves a duel between a bull and a matador. It traces its roots to prehistoric bull worship and sacrifice. The matador sees himself as mortal facing the immortal bull, and must skillfully kill the bull in a dramatic final moment to prove his artistry and bravery. Though still viewed as an important cultural symbol by some, bullfighting is increasingly controversial and banned in some parts of Spain due to concerns about animal cruelty.

1. Exploring Spanish Culture and
Tradition
Bullfighting

2. In a nutshell..
• It is a traditional spectacle of Spain, Portugal,
southern France (Iberian Peninsula).
• Originally bullfighting arenas were made as a
meeting place or gathering grounds for
Spanish cities and towns.
• It involves a dual between the bull (toro) and
the fighter (matador).
• One of the most controversial sports amongst
international culture.

3. Cultural Meanings and Principle of the
Sport
• Bullfighting traces roots to prehistoric bull worship and
mainly sacrifice.
• The matador is the “prince of the people”. He can only kill
the bull because he sees death in the face of the bull. He
sees himself as mortal, but views the bull as immortal.
• “La hora de la verdad”- the moment of truth when the
matador slays the bull.
• Bull fighting and sacrifice philosophy: “we survive because
we kill nature and cannot escape need because our souls
are damaged”
• The Spanish bullfight displays artistry, bravery and
redemption.

4. Historical Significance
• Bullfighting is often linked to Rome, where
many human slaying of animal events were
held.
• Rome brought to Spain the ancient urban
civilization of the Mediterranean as well as the
architecture such as bullfighting arenas.
• It is believed to have evolved from the sport
and tradition of gladiators.

5. How the Current World Feels About
Bullfighting:
• Bullfighting is viewed as a symbol of Spanish
culture. It is seen by followers as not a
competition but as an interaction between the
bull and matador.
• "Bullfighting is the only art in which the artist is in
danger of death and in which the degree of
brilliance in the performance is left to the
fighter's honor.”- Ernest Hemingway
• Bullfighting is greatly frowned upon today in
areas of Spain such as Catalonia and main cities
like Barcelona.