A Short Treatise on Boots and Shoes, Ancient and Modern

"A Short Treatise on Boots and Shoes, Ancient and Modern" by Walter H. Goater is a journey through time, following the fascinating story of footwear from ancient civilizations to the late 19th century. The book walks through the transformation of simple sandals worn by Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans into complex designs that mirror shifts in culture and society. In each step, Goater highlights how boots and shoes have been more than just protection for feet. The book examines the customs surrounding footwear, like the Japanese practice of removing shoes before entering homes, and the Persian use of high heels as status symbols. It shows how footwear evolved, from basic protection to high wooden shoes in Venice and pointy shoes in the Middle Ages. The book wraps up with look at the modern styles, pointing out their elegance and strength, and uses pictures and interesting anecdotes to brings to life the rich history of footwear.