Note 10 — Chapter V · TAUROMACHIA, The Fighting Bull of Spain.
Reading edition
The expression "Bull-fight" is a very inadequate interpretation of the Spanish Corrida, or Fiesta de Toros, even in its modern form, and conveys no idea of the magnificent spectacular displays of the middle ages. Then, the national heroic life was but reflected in the arena, in scenes embellished with all the stately accessories and colouring dear to semi-Oriental minds. The mimic pageantry of to-day is but a relic of former grandeur.