Bestiaries are medieval manuscripts that describe various animals, both real and mythical, often accompanied by illustrations. They served as a combination of natural history, moral lessons, and allegorical interpretations, reflecting the beliefs and knowledge of the time. Each entry typically includes a description of the animal, its habitat, and symbolic meanings. These texts often featured creatures like the unicorn and dragon, alongside more familiar animals such as the lion and elephant. Bestiaries were popular in the Middle Ages, influencing art, literature, and education, and they continue to be studied for their insights into medieval thought and culture.