So, what's this book actually about? Don't go in expecting a novel or a biography. 'Tauromaquia completa' is a technical manual. Francisco 'Paquiro' Montes was the most famous bullfighter of his day, and here he lays out, in incredible detail, exactly how a bullfight should be conducted. He covers everything: the different types of bulls, the roles of each member of the team (the picadors, banderilleros, and matador), the proper use of the cape and sword, and the specific sequences of moves that make up a 'faena.' He's basically writing the official playbook for an entire art form.

Why You Should Read It

This is why I found it so fascinating. Reading this manual strips away the romance and drama we often see in films. What's left is a stark, procedural guide to a lethal performance. You get inside the head of a master who saw this not just as a fight, but as a structured ceremony with right and wrong ways to do things. It makes you think about how any dangerous tradition—from martial arts to spaceflight—needs its own rulebook to pass knowledge from one generation to the next. It’s a raw, unfiltered look at a world most of us will never see up close.

Final Verdict

This isn't for everyone. If you're looking for a thrilling narrative, look elsewhere. But if you're curious about cultural history, the psychology of performance under extreme pressure, or just want to read a primary source document written by a true expert in his field, this is a goldmine. Perfect for history buffs, students of Spanish culture, or anyone interested in the strange intersection of art, sport, and mortal danger. It’s a short, intense, and utterly unique window into another time.