Cats in Medieval Manuscripts

Kathleen Walker-Meikle traces the history of our feline friends (or foes) in medieval times

Treasured pets, fearsome mousers, or even associates of the devil: cats have been depicted in various forms for centuries. They were illustrated in medieval manuscripts throughout the Middle Ages, often in exquisite detail and frequently accompanied by their natural prey, mice. Kathleen Walker-Meikle, author of the British Library book Cats in Medieval Manuscripts takes us on a journey into the lives of domestic cats in medieval times. She draws from the Library’s rich medieval collection to give interesting anecdotes about cats – both real and imaginary – and to provide a fascinating picture of the life of the cat and its relationship with humans in the medieval world.

Kathleen Walker-Meikle is a research fellow at Kings College, London, specialising in Medieval and early-modern animals and medicine.