Bestiaries were profoundly dynamic teaching tools in the Middle Ages. Compendiums of animals—both real and fantastic, wild and domestic—their purpose was to provide information about the natural world, to draw moral examples from animals’ behavior, and to reveal their mystical meaning. Each animal was viewed as having its own special significance—a reflection of how the Word of God was revealed in all creation. The animals present in medieval bestiaries were also placed in church architecture and iconography as visual representations of teachings. Each animal's multifaceted symbolism was a reminder of God’s presence, grace, and faithfulness.

Why are animals and birds often featured in English church and monastery architecture? What do these sculptures mean? Where does their symbolism come from? Author Arthur Collins explores these questions and their answers with his in-depth analysis. He takes particular interest in carvings and sculptures from the Middle Ages, analyzing their symbolism, and enhancing his study with over 100 photographs of sculptural examples.