Reynaert the Fox (Dutch Beast Epic)

We look at a beast epic from 13th century Netherlands about the sly fox, Reynaert. Written in Middle Dutch by a certain “Willem die Madocke maecte,” this Beast Epic offers a satirical view of the middle ages through talking animals. This story is in a long line of other beast epics, which probably have their origin in Aesop’s fables, surrounding the character of Reynard the Fox.The translation I’m using: “Of Reynaert the Fox” translated by Thea Summerfield, and published by Amsterdam University Press (2009). This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit chroniclesofchirstendom.substack.com