6.28.2011

Creature Spotlight: Unicorn

UNICORN: A white horse with a goat's beard and a large, pointed, spiraling horn atop its head.




Unicorns often symbolize purity and grace. In medieval times, it was believed that only virgins could lure unicorns into capture. The horn (alicorn) was considered magical in the medieval era, supposedly used in medicines and jewelry to protect against poison or other dangers. The unicorn became the symbol of medieval apothecaries. In eastern regions, the unicorn had different variations of appearance. It was also sometimes said to look like a goat with a single horn.

Greek writers of natural history were convinced of the unicorn's existence. Unicorns are mentioned in the King James Version of the Bible. They also appear in Chinese mythology, where they are interpreted as a sign of good times. In the popular Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, drinking unicorn's blood grants a person immortality.



The lion and the unicorn were fighting for the crown
The lion beat the unicorn all around the town.
Some gave them white bread, and some gave them brown;
Some gave them plum cake and drummed them out of town.
-British History 1603



What mythical creatures are you curious about? Help me choose what to post on next in the comments section.

1 comment:

  1. Great Post. All of your Creature Spotlight posts are genius. Great resource for fantasy writers. Keep up the good work!!!

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