Unicorns: History, Myths and Legends

Welcome to learn about the history of unicorns.

Unicorns are made of dreams and enchantments. They are some of the most beloved mythical beings and very common motifs that we still come across today. In this course, we will go through the history of unicorns from ancient times to the medieval time period and renaissance.

A lot of people believed that a unicorn was an actual animal. It is possible that the legend of the unicorn was born from rhinos, deer, antelopes or roe deer and other animals with antlers. We will also be discussing the symbolism behind horns and antlers, and the different meanings and interpretations that unicorns horn has been given. You will learn about the domestic lives of the unicorns. Where they live, what they eat and who creates the unicorns.

Unicorns are often connected to spirituality and magic. In this course, you will also find out about the Christian symbolism behind unicorns and why we can still today find unicorn imagery in churches around Europe. There are many mentions of unicorns in the Bible as well. Step into a journey to learn about unicorns in ancient civilizations such as Greece and Persia. What unicorns are symbolised in Greek and Roman mythology? You will also learn about unicorns in Asian cultures and how they can take many kinds of shapes and forms.

In medieval times unicorns symbolized purity and in medieval bestiaries, the unicorn was a commonly depicted animal but more than that, during these times unicorns became the symbol of courtly love and this is why we find him woven into many medieval tapestries.