Latinský Physiologus a jeho středověcí čtenáři II (2026)

The second volume presents a Czech translation of version B of the Latin Physiologus, accompanied by commentary tracing the reception of its individual interpretations in medieval scholarly literature and book illumination. Across thirty-seven chapters, the Latin translator introduces several dozen representatives of the natural world whose unusual appearance, remarkable behaviour or distinctive qualities are intended to remind Christians of Christ’s message and sacrifice for the salvation of humankind, while also serving as positive or negative examples for their lives. A panther, whose pleasant breath attracts all other animals, points to Christ, who draws every person to himself through the sweetness of his message. Monstrous sea sirens, whose intoxicating song lures sailors close before killing them, warn against the devil and his temptations. The loving behaviour of young hoopoes, which care for their elderly parents once they mature, reminds people not to neglect good family relationships, while the snake that blocks its ears so it cannot hear the enchanter’s voice warns those who are deaf to the words of the Gospel. Each chapter consists of a factual and a symbolic part, and it is the latter that forms the author’s main focus. The title physiologus does not refer primarily to someone who studies nature and knows its various objects and phenomena, but rather to an exegete of nature who interprets its individual elements according to the principles of Christian faith and seeks to raise people above material images, leading them through knowledge of nature to knowledge of God. The contents are in Czech.