Welcome to the Medieval Bestiary
Here are gathered the natures of the beasts of the earth, the raptors of the sky, and the serpents that crawl upon the ground. Here their forms are shown, their habits recounted, and their virtues praised. For nothing exists in creation that does not bear within itself a sign and a teaching for humankind. Just as the lion, king of beasts, hides its tracks and keeps watch with ever-open eyes, so Christ concealed His divinity and remained alive in spirit. And as the dragon crushes the elephant in its coils, so the Evil One lays snares for the souls of the faithful. The phoenix, which is reborn from its own ashes, bears witness to the hope of resurrection; the raven, which guides its young in flight, teaches human beings their duty toward their children. Even the humble serpents, which shed their skin, show how a person must abandon the path of error and be renewed. Every creature, great or small, carries within itself a mystery: some will heal humankind with their flesh or their blood, others will warn them with their venom or their cry, and still others reveal the wonders and the terrors of the world.
Be observant not only to the nature of animals, but also to the one of the soul; for through beasts the order of Creation is revealed, and in their behaviors are hidden warnings for those who wish to live righteously. And thus begins a compendium of beasts, symbols, and truths, offered to you so that you may know, reflect, and stand in awe.