The Medieval Bestiary in English: Texts and Translations of the Old and Middle English Physiologus

The Physiologus is a collection of poetic descriptions of animals and their Christian allegories, first penned in Egypt between the 2nd and 4th centuries. This edition provides the texts and translations of the only two surviving English versions, as well as translations of Latin, French, and Old English sources and analogues. It offers an accessible introduction to the literary history of the Physiologus and the politics of animal representation, asking how we can understand humanity's relationships with non-human animals and the environment today without understanding their past.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 186 pages
Publication date: 26 July 2022
Publisher: Broadview Press Ltd

Originally written in Egypt between the 2nd and 4th centuries, the Physiologus is a remarkable work that seamlessly blends poetic descriptions of animals with Christian allegories. Its influence spread far and wide, being translated into numerous languages across North Africa and much of Europe. Each version of the Physiologus adapted the text to suit the cultural nuances of its respective audience, offering fascinating insights into this global tradition of representing and interpreting animals.

This edition presents the texts and translations of the only two surviving English versions of the Physiologus: the Old English Physiologus from the late 10th-century Exeter Book and the Middle English Physiologus from the mid-13th-century MS Arundel 292. Additionally, it includes translations of various Latin, French, and Old English sources and analogues, providing a comprehensive understanding of the work's literary history and the politics of animal representation.

At the heart of this book lies a commitment to both medieval studies and animal studies. It serves as an accessible introduction to the Physiologus and its significance in the literary world. By exploring the ways in which the Physiologus represents and interprets animals, it sheds light on humanity's complex relationships with non-human animals and the environment. It prompts us to question how we can understand our present-day interactions with these creatures without delving into their past.

The Physiologus is a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate scholars and enthusiasts alike. Its rich literary and cultural heritage offers valuable insights into the evolution of human-animal relations and the complex interplay between religion, nature, and society. Through its translations and analysis, this edition provides a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of medieval literature and the profound connections between humans and the natural world.

Weight: 230g
Dimension: 141 x 216 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781554815180