Dogs barking at the beggars in the street

Hark Hark the Dogs Do Bark

Hark! Hark! The dogs do bark,
The beggars are coming to town.
Some in rags,
And some in tags,
And one in a velvet gown!

History:

These words were frequently chanted during the reign of Queen Elizabeth in the 16th century as homeless men and women begged her for food and water.

Listen as male British:

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Meaning

This rhyme paints the scene of beggars, of many sorts and social ranks, arriving in town, as noticed by barking dogs. On one level, it’s a literal observation of the commotion caused by newcomers of varying appearances. Symbolically, it may highlight social diversity and the contrasts between the poor (“rags and tags”) and the rich (“velvet gown”), or serve as a tongue-in-cheek comment on social upheaval—or simply make fun of ragtag crowds.

Origin

English in origin, this rhyme is rooted in oral tradition and has been traced back to at least the 17th century. It was likely inspired by times of social change when beggars, refugees, or wandering poor became highly visible, possibly reflecting periods of unrest or transition, such as after the dissolution of the monasteries or during times of war.

Time Period

The earliest printed versions date to the late 18th century, but the rhyme is believed to have existed in oral tradition before then, possibly as early as the Tudor or Stuart periods (late 16th–early 17th centuries).

Why It Became Popular

Its catchy repetition and vivid imagery made it easy for children to remember and recite. Its satirical undertone and rhythmic cadence contributed to its spread in schools and homes, and its inclusion in early nursery rhyme collections solidified its place in English folklore.

First Known Publication

First widely printed in “Gammer Gurton’s Garland” (1784), though the rhyme was likely in circulation earlier.

Structure and Style

Meter: Iambic trimeter
Rhyme Scheme: AABB
Line Count: 4
Style Notes: Simple, rhythmic, and punchy with repetition (“hark, hark!”), creating a sense of alertness; strong use of contrast and listing.

Themes

Social class and diversity
Arrival/change
Observation
Humor/nonsense

Language Notes

“Hark” is an archaic term meaning “listen.”
“Rags” and “tags” refer to tattered clothing, while “velvet gown” denotes luxury.
The contrast in clothing is heightened by the rhyme and assonance.

Moral or Lesson

None clearly intended, though it may subtly reflect on judging by appearances or awareness of social differences.

Historical or Cultural Notes

The rhyme may have referenced social changes during and after the Tudor period, with the dissolution of monasteries creating an influx of impoverished wanderers. Sometimes it’s interpreted as a satirical jab at new arrivals, including wealthy but outlandish visitors.

Notable Variants

Some versions add verses listing more types of clothing and characters or alternate the towns or animals featured.

Appearances in Media or Literature

Regularly appears in nursery rhyme collections and illustrated children’s books; sometimes referred to in literature or theatrical works set in historical England.

Suggested Activities

Roleplay Parade: Children dress up in “rags,” “tags,” and “velvet gowns” to parade through the “town” (classroom or yard) while others play barking dogs.
Listening Game: Practice listening skills by saying “Hark!” and seeing who can imitate a dog’s bark the quickest.
Dress-Up Sorting: Gather a box of play clothes; sort into “rags,” “tags,” and “velvet gowns” (fancy, old, and fun outfits).
Vocabulary and Discussion: Teach and discuss the words “hark,” “rags,” “tags,” and “velvet” to expand vocabulary.
Art Project: Draw the scene described in the rhyme—dogs barking, beggars arriving—using vibrant colors for contrast.
Sound Mapping: Make a list of town noises (“bark,” “shout,” “clatter”) and recreate them in a soundscape activity.