Skin and Bone, Wood and Stone: Medieval Animal Material Culture and Heritage

This essay collection will explore aspects of cutting-edge research on the theme of medieval and early modern animal studies, green heritage, sustainability, and wellbeing engagement.

Medieval animals traditionally are linked to St Francis, but books of beasts were used by St Anselm and his kinsman Honorius to connect spirituality to people’s emotions in what became an important local and international heritage. Anselm told parables about the soaring Eagle, the shy Little Owl, the frightened Hare, and the beautiful Pearl of the oyster while Honorius drew on the early bestiary to create stories to be carved and painted in churches – such as the Lion breathing life into his stillborn cubs as a figure for hope.

Essays will be based on papers given at the NLHF Medieval Animals Heritage Project: Skin and Bone, Wood and Stone International Academic Conference.