Human-Fish Relationship in Medieval Literature for Younger Audiences

Abstract

The present chapter analyses the representations of water-borne animals (which all were categorised as ‘fish’ in the pre-Linnean taxonomies) appearing in medieval literature for younger audiences. While childhood and children’s literature have been traditionally perceived as later societal constructs, this article demonstrates that certain narratives were considered suitable and were potentially consumed by younger audiences. The article starts by addressing the current academic discussions on medieval childhood and which medieval sources can be identified as narratives potentially intended for children. It then argues that three types of dynamics are visible in the representations of fish in medieval stories for young audiences. First, fish are portrayed as food. Second, fish are represented as containers carrying objects, which are sent to humans by God. Finally, fish can be shown as imaginary monstrous creatures. The article analyses these narratives within the contexts of medieval Christian worldview and modern research into human – nonhuman relationships.