Bestiary: Being an English Version of the Bodleian Library, Oxford, MS Bodley 764

If you are not familiar with the concept of a "bestiary," the best way to describe it is the attempt of the medieval mind to categorize and describe the animal kingdom. Bestiaries were the work of the educated class, because it was they alone who had the skills to write, and also to illustrate, a written tome. Bestiaries can be hugely enjoyable, for they allow us to see both the insights and the shortcomings of the medieval conception of "animal." And, in the case of this text, they could be lavishly illustrated.This beastiary, which is a translated facsimile of the 13th century MS. Bodley 764, is simply a delight. At a slightly larger form factor than a standard trade paperback, the text is printed on the highest quality heavyweight, high gloss paper and is reproduced in full color (every illustration). The attempt is to reproduce the manuscript as it appears in the MS. Bodley 764, but with the Latin translated into English. The result is a gorgeous (and physically manageable) text which really does a good job of transmiting the original intention of the text. Although an index is provided at the front so you can jump to an animal of choice, the text is really best read from beginning to end. It is as I say a "delightful romp," and you'll find yourself entranced at the simulataneously simplistic and deep content the words convey.By the way, you might think this will have animals such as "ox," "lion," "seal," and so on. You're right. But it also has a wealth of animals, real and imaginary, that you wouldn't necessarily expect, unless you are an avid medievalist. Try "Parander," "Bonnacon," "Monoceros," "Hoope," and "Wether," and then you'll realize there's a whole lot to explore here. There are about 120 animals in all.A real treat for both bedtime reading and for more serious study, this book can also make a wonderful gift for the person for whom you can't think of anything to give.

It's amazing how people could be authorities on something they've never seen or observed their habits. But it is a lovely reprint of an actual BEASTIARY.

Words fail to describe the wisdom and beauty of this book. I'ts worth the price.

Look, I am just a mom. I am not some specialist in Medieval art or a religious commentator. I am just a mom. I have a six year old son who thinks the sun rises and set on this book. And with a little parental editing I read (most of) it aloud to him. The pictures are fantastic and detailed. It was just what I was looking for when my son requested a book on mythical beast. These animals appear in fairy tails and fantasy games and he wanted more detail on what they were exactly. A lot of discussion about what is real, what was misunderstood and what was just plain made up. A great spring board for critical thinking for a kid. It has been absconded by older brother who is 27 years old. My sons and I have enjoyed this book thoroughly.

I’m only on page 70 but I’ve really enjoyed reading. It’s interesting to learn where the names of animals came from. The perspective on the animals is interesting and at times comical. We have come a long way.

Nice artwork, glossy prints, and a nice reference book and also short interval reading. I like it.

...it fits well into my weird library.

I bought this book not really knowing what to expect on the inside - the name and cover sold it for me. I have read this book like a novel and enjoyed every bit of it. The stunning illuminations for each animal and the lively text that accompanies both entertain and offer an insight into the lives of medieval people. A delight.

A beautifully illustrated book produced to a high standard and printed on high-quality paper. A joy to own. And at a quarter to a third of the price of comparable books in the field it's astonishing value too. A concise and to the point introduction (if you want reams of analysis rather than fabulous images you'd probably want to look elsewhere). This may be essentially a book of images (with some quaint medieval moral instruction thrown in), but that's what bestiaries are and to turn a phrase, 'only a picture book, but what a picture book!'

Bought to supplement course on medieval manuscripts. Well laid out, interesting, with lots of illustrations. Not reading it cover to cover but dipping in and out for a beasdt a day. Good fun.

Great little resource book for illustrators and artists

I order on Saturday and arrive Sunday, you certain had your Weetbix...,Lovely book and great reading to come.

The medieval mind is a wonder and this book give the reader a glimpse into it. The images, taken from illuminated manuscripts, are a joy and the textual explanations of the role of the various beasts - both real and imaginary - are fascinating.