FIGHT TO THE FINISH
Known to everyone else is the bullfight. Also known to most is that it doesn't end well for the bull. Rooted deep in Spanish culture, I'm not one to argue its validity or ethics, let alone it's effects on social and moral conscience. Now that I've stated my disclaimer for the record, I have watched a live bullfight. Once. And likely never again. Like watching a train wreck unfold, I became mesmerized by the elaborate series of rituals performed with drama and much fanfare. The bull is ushered into the center of the arena where the matador awaits. He makes several passes through the cape before the first sword is pierced between his shoulders. This first strike is intended to anger him. The audience is now riled with adrenaline as anticipation builds. As the bull makes more aggressive passes through the cape, the matador is ready to make the second strike. The intent of the second strike is to weaken the bull. By now, the red cape is masking the blood pretty well - at least on the cape. If the first 2 sequences conjures up strong opinions, the third strike coming up will raise even more. This time, the third and final strike is for the kill. However the bull is expected to put up a feverish fight before he goes down, supposedly with dignity. Three strikes is ideal, but it's not uncommon to see 4 - 6 swords sticking out of his back. All this happens in about 20 - 30 minutes before anew bull and a new matador comes in. Many are rallying hard to end Corridas, instead opting for the fights that do not end in bloodshed (for the bull at least). Barcelona has outlawed bullfighting altogether since sometime in 2008 but in the southern part of France, these spectacles continue. However, on the other end there are those who will defend this sport with fervor as this is part of their Spanish culture and it's roots are firmly planted deep in their society.
...this is a cow...