Menagerie: The History of Exotic Animals in England

Menagerie is a detailed history of exotic animals in Britain, from Henry III's elephant to George IV's giraffe and Lady Castlereagh's ostriches. It also tells the story of those who came into contact with them, from owners to merchants to naturalists to artists to collectors.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 368 pages
\n Publication date: 10 May 2018
\n Publisher: Oxford University Press
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Menagerie is a captivating tale that unfolds the captivating story of the diverse array of exotic animals that were brought to Britain from ancient times until the establishment of the London Zoo. This remarkable journey is replete with extravagant, eccentric, and occasionally bizarre elements. From the majestic elephant of Henry III at the Tower to George IV's passionate affair with Britain's first giraffe and Lady Castlereagh's recalcitrant ostriches, Caroline Grigson's comprehensive exploration spans centuries, offering the first detailed account of exotic animals in Britain.

As we embark on this captivating journey, we encounter a multitude of fascinating and extraordinary creatures. Among them are the first peacocks and popinjays, the mischievous monkey of Thomas More, the majestic cassowaries in St James's Park, and the stubborn zebra of Lord Clive, who refused to mate with a donkey until it was adorned with stripes. However, this narrative extends beyond the animals themselves. It encompasses the stories of all those who interacted with them, including the owners, merchants, seamen, naturalists, artists, itinerant showmen, collectors, and countless individuals who simply marveled at these magnificent creatures.

From kings, queens, and nobles to ordinary men, women, and children, driven by mere curiosity and a thirst for novelty, people from all walks of life flocked to witness and appreciate the wonders of the menagerie. These encounters fostered a deep appreciation for the natural world and its extraordinary inhabitants, leaving an indelible mark on British culture and society.

Menagerie serves as a testament to the human fascination with the exotic and the enduring power of storytelling to capture the imagination and ignite curiosity. It reminds us of the intricate connections between humans and the animal kingdom, the shared wonder and awe we feel towards the wonders of nature, and the profound impact that these encounters have had on our collective history and understanding.

\n Weight: 460g\n
Dimension: 136 x 215 x 20 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780198714712\n \n