Brothers of Pity and Other Tales of Beasts and Men

by Juliana Horatia Ewing

"Brothers of Pity and Other Tales of Beasts and Men" by Juliana Horatia Ewing is a collection of children's stories written in the late 19th century. The book features whimsical tales that explore the interactions between humans and animals, emphasizing themes of compassion and kindness, particularly through the eyes of young characters. One story follows a boy who becomes inspired by the story of the Brothers of Pity, a group of individuals who selflessly care for those in need, leading him to create his own version of this brotherhood to tenderly bury animals that have died alone. The opening portion introduces us to a curious child who loves to play and imagine in the study of his godfather, Gilpin. During a game involving books, the child accidentally drops an important text, which leads him to discover a captivating image of the Brothers of Pity—a group dedicated to helping the sick and burying the dead, including those with no one to mourn them. This prompts the boy to aspire to join their ranks, leading him to creatively set up his own "Brotherhood" to bury small animals he finds. The narrative blends imaginative play with reflections on mortality and kindness, showcasing the child's growing understanding of compassion towards all living beings.