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Cover of The Master of Game: The Oldest English Book on Hunting

The Master of Game: The Oldest English Book on Hunting

Written by of Norwich Edward,count of Foix Gaston III Phoebus

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Hunting

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About this book

"The Master of Game: The Oldest English Book on Hunting" by Edward, Second Duke of York, is a historical treatise written in the early 15th century, specifically between 1406 and 1413. This work serves as a comprehensive manual on hunting techniques and practices of the time, largely based on a translation of Count Gaston de Foix's renowned hunting book, "Livre de Chasse." The text emphasizes the noble pursuit of hunting, detailing the nature and behavior of various game animals and the techniques required for effective hunting. At the start of the book, the author dedicates his work to Lord Henry, expressing his intent to create a simple guide to hunting that would be of service to future hunters. He outlines the various beasts, such as the hare, hart, and buck, that he will describe, along with the characteristics of different hound breeds. The prologue articulates the virtues of hunting, suggesting that it fosters good virtues while engaging in the sport. The Duke conveys the importance of understanding the animals and the skills necessary for successful hunts, framing hunting as a year-round activity that cultivates both physical and moral well-being.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Master of Game: The Oldest English Book on Hunting, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 10 hours
  • advanced
  • instructive
  • historical
  • didactic

Edward, Second Duke of York's "The Master of Game" is a foundational early 15th-century English treatise on hunting, largely a translation and adaptation of Gaston de Foix's "Livre de Chasse." Dedicated to Lord Henry, the work serves as a comprehensive manual, meticulously detailing medieval hunting techniques, the behavior of various game animals, and the characteristics of different hound breeds. Beyond its practical instruction, the book champions hunting as a noble pursuit that cultivates physical fitness, moral virtues, and discipline. It stands as a significant historical document, offering a unique window into the aristocratic pastimes and societal values of late medieval England.

“For as much as God hath given you grace to be a lord, so should ye use the noble craft of hunting, which is the cause of health and long life.”

Key themes

The Nobility and Virtue of Hunting
Central to the book's philosophy, hunting is presented not merely as a sport but as a noble pursuit that cultivates essential virtues. Edward argues that hunting fosters physical health, moral discipline, patience, courage, and a strong character, making it an activity befitting a nobleman. It is framed as a means to avoid idleness and its associated vices.
Practical Knowledge and Skill
The core purpose of the book is to impart detailed, practical knowledge about hunting. This includes meticulous descriptions of various game animals, their behaviors, habitats, and the specific techniques required to hunt them effectively. It also covers the selection, training, and use of different hound breeds, demonstrating a deep understanding of the craft.
Preservation and Transmission of Tradition
Edward's work is an act of cultural preservation, ensuring that the knowledge and traditions of hunting, a cornerstone of aristocratic life, are passed down to future generations. By translating and adapting Gaston de Foix's renowned text, he safeguards this expertise within an English context, emphasizing the continuity of noble practices.

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How does 'The Master of Game' reflect the social hierarchy and aristocratic values of early 15th-century England?

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