Tarandrus, Rochester Bestiary, c.1230
The tarand was first mentioned as tarandos/tάρανδος by Aristotle in his Corpus Aristotelicum, then by Pliny in his History of The Animals as tarandus and also Solinus called it parandrus.
In Medieval bestiaries and Christian symbolism, the tarand was often associated with strength and endurance due to its ability to navigate harsh winter environments and pull heavy loads. This symbolism was sometimes used to represent the perseverance and resilience of Christians in facing the challenges of life.
The tarand's antlers, which shed and regrow annually, were seen as a symbol of renewal and rebirth, paralleling themes of spiritual renewal and the resurrection of Christ.
The image of the tarand pulling a sleigh or carrying burdens was sometimes interpreted allegorically as an emblem of humility and service, reflecting Christ's role as a servant leader and the Christian call to serve others.
Transcription
Translation
preferens ultra modum longa. ad obsequium cuius velit
motus accomodata. Neque enim rigent; sed moventur
ut usus exigit preliandi. Quorum alterum cum pug-
nat; pretendit; alterum replicat. Ut si ictu aliquo
alterius acumen offenderit; acies succedat alterius;
The beast called yale is as large as a horse, has a tail like that of an elephant, is of black colour, has caprine jaws, and exceedingly long horns that adjust to any movements it wishes to make, for they do not stiffen, but they move as the need for fighting requires. When the yale has to fight, one horn moves forward whereas the other one folds back. If the tip of the first horn is damaged by a blow, it is replaced by the tip of the second one.
Bibliography
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