Black Beauty · Chapter
Cockneys explained
Black Beauty describes the harsh 'steam-engine style' of driving practiced by ignorant town drivers, who treat horses like machines and show no consideration for their welfare.
What happens
Black Beauty describes the harsh 'steam-engine style' of driving practiced by ignorant town drivers, who treat horses like machines and show no consideration for their welfare. He recounts a serious accident where his companion Rory is severely injured by a reckless driver, leading to Rory's sale for coal-carting. Beauty also tells the story of Peggy, a mare with short legs who suffers from constant whipping to keep up with faster horses, and reflects on the importance of considerate driving and proper handling, which eventually leads to his sale to Mr. Barry.
Themes in this chapter
Animal Welfare and Cruelty
The chapter vividly depicts the physical and emotional suffering of horses due to ignorant and cruel driving practices, such as overwork, whipping, and lack of consideration.
Kindness and Empathy
Contrasts the harsh treatment by cockney drivers with the gentle, understanding approach of considerate drivers like the gentleman who adjusts the bit and drives with a light rein.
Freedom vs. Confinement
Horses like Peggy are confined by their physical limitations and the relentless demands of drivers, unable to escape the cycle of whipping and overwork.
Characters to notice
- Black Beauty
Narrator and observer of the harsh treatment of horses by ignorant drivers; recounts his own experiences and those of Rory and Peggy.
- Rory
A good honest horse who is severely injured in a collision caused by a reckless driver; later sold for coal-carting.
- Peggy
A mare with short legs who suffers from constant whipping to keep up with faster horses; eventually sold to kind ladies.
- Jeremiah Barker
Mentioned as a considerate driver who treats horses gently, in contrast to the cockney drivers.
- Mr. Barry
The gentleman who buys Black Beauty after a kind driver recommends him.
Key passages
“These people never think of getting out to walk up a steep hill. Oh, no, they have paid to ride, and ride they will!”
Such drivers refuse to lighten the horse's load by walking uphill, insisting on riding because they have paid for the journey.
Highlights the selfishness and lack of empathy of cockney drivers.
“The whole shock came upon Rory. The gig shaft ran right into the chest, making him stagger back with a cry that I shall never forget.”
Rory bore the full force of the collision, with the shaft piercing his chest and causing a terrible cry.
Describes the violent accident caused by reckless driving.
“I wish my legs were longer!”
Peggy laments her short legs, which force her into an awkward pace and subject her to constant whipping.
Expresses Peggy's helplessness and the unfairness of her situation.