Real Fantastic Beasts

Guest expert Richard Nash takes us through the history of the thoroughbred horse, from its hybrid origins to the cult of purity that made it the background to racial narratives of the modern world.

Just in time for Halloween, we explore the humble bat, whose wings suddenly became the standard for all demonic flying creatures.

We explore the lore of the hippocampus, from its classical roots to its Celtic legends.

Beth Morrison, senior curator of manuscripts at the J. Paul Getty Museum, talks about medieval bestiaries, her favorite imaginary animal, and a new exhibition at the Getty Museum.

Guest Sarah M. Guérin explains Medieval Europe's fascination with ivory and the differences between the early ivory trade and the savagery of modern Elephant poaching.

We explore the Albatross, unknown until just before the modern era... or was it?

In which we explore this beautiful and ancient non-binary creature. 

We explore the lore of cocks and hens from manuscript illustrations to the classic weathervane.