Bestiaries

Bestiaries are historical collections of descriptions and illustrations of animals, mythological creatures, and sometimes plants, often compiled during the Middle Ages. They combine natural observations with folklore, religious symbolism, and moral lessons, providing both scientific and allegorical insights. While some entries reflect genuine knowledge, others are based on myth or hearsay. Bestiaries served as educational tools, symbolically illustrating virtues and vices through the creatures depicted. Today, they are valued for their artistic beauty and cultural history, offering a window into medieval perspectives on nature, morality, and creativity.