Cats. A History

For over 10,000 years, cats have navigated the fringes of human civilization, yet it wasn't until recent decades that they emerged as widespread household pets. In "Cats," Rod Phillips offers a captivating exploration of the cultural and social history of these enigmatic animals. He chronicles their varied roles through time—from sacred hunters in ancient Egypt and supposed witch accomplices in medieval Europe, to indispensable ship rat-catchers and beloved online sensations. Phillips delves into the dual nature of cats, highlighting their blend of familiarity and mystery, their perceived independence, and often disruptive presence. These traits, linked to femininity, the supernatural, and marginal figures, have significantly influenced human perceptions. Celebrated as both companions and pest controllers, cats have also been vilified as ecological and moral threats, yet admired for their unpredictable nature. This well-rounded depiction examines their impact across various spheres such as religion, politics, gender dynamics, literature, war, and popular culture. It also sheds light on our connections with other animals, especially dogs and rodents. The historical roles cats have played reveal the complexities in how humans view them: affectionate yet distant, innocent yet sinister, mundane yet extraordinary. This book serves as a comprehensive account of cats' influence throughout history, presenting a sophisticated analysis of how humans coexist with creatures perceived to follow their own rules.