Taming the wild…

This article explores the narrative construction of interspecies relationships through the lens of equine taming practices, focusing on the work of well-known horse trainers. By analyzing the biographies of Shy Boy and Myrnah, the wild horses subjected to taming, the study critically examines how these trainers present their methods within a narrative that portrays a harmonious relationship between humans and horses. The narratives created by horse trainers, which suggest that horses voluntarily submit to taming and willingly form partnerships with their trainers, are ultimately anthropocentric constructs that mask the coercive nature of these interactions. Through a comparative analysis of horse trainers’ methods and the narrative strategies used by killer whale trainers described by Jane Desmond, I explore how these narratives influence perceptions of animal behavior and human-animal relationships. This article contributes to the ongoing scholarly dialogue on human-animal relationships, particularly in the context of taming and horsemanship. It suggests that developing an awareness of animals’ needs, respecting their boundaries, and finding new ways to build relationships based on genuine respect is essential. The article ends with a call to continue searching for methods of working with horses that minimize violence and pressure while taking into account the real needs of animals, as well as to spread awareness of real forms of relationships with horses that can be based on mutual understanding and respect.