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.

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?

Guest Alixe Bovey regales us with the perplexing history of the goose barnacle and the barnacle goose. 

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.