Witty and visually powerful, the expression prendere il toro per le corna embodies a bold approach to problem-solving.
Some etymological theories suggest this figure of speech probably draws on the visual imagery of the Minoan-Mycenaean civilization (i.e., the Mediterranean Bronze Age civilization developed on the island of Crete and continental Greece from 2700 to 1450 BC). Bull leaping (or tauromachy) was a prevalent sport all over the Greek lands back then. An acrobat, usually a religious figure, would dart towards a fast-approaching bull during this dramatic act. By grabbing the animal by the horns, the athlete could perform a somersault and fly all over the bull’s back.
Some etymological theories suggest this figure of speech probably draws on the visual imagery of the Minoan-Mycenaean civilization (i.e., the Mediterranean Bronze Age civilization developed on the island of Crete and continental Greece from 2700 to 1450 BC). Bull leaping (or tauromachy) was a prevalent sport all over the Greek lands back then. An acrobat, usually a religious figure, would dart towards a fast-approaching bull during this dramatic act. By grabbing the animal by the horns, the athlete could perform a somersault and fly all over the bull’s back.