Environment
Fact-checked

At AllThingsNature, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is a Unicorn?

Niki Foster
Niki Foster
Niki Foster
Niki Foster

A unicorn is a mythological creature that resembles a horse with a narwhal-like horn protruding from its forehead. The classic creature also has a billy goat's beard, cloven hooves, and a lion's tail. It is generally believed to be benevolent, and its blood and horn are said to have healing and purifying properties.

Belief in the unicorn is ancient, and prehistoric paintings in Lascaux, France; Lago Posadas, Argentina; and Namaqualand in southern Africa feature similar creatures. It is also mentioned in a version of the Bible and in ancient Greek and Roman works of natural history and folklore. However, no scientific proof of the existence of unicorns has ever surfaced. A few alleged skeletons have been displayed throughout history, but they are widely believed to be hoaxes. The word translated in the King James Version of the Bible as "unicorn" is re'em, which many scholars believe referred to an extinct type of cattle called the aurochs.

A unicorn is mentioned in some versions of the Bible.
A unicorn is mentioned in some versions of the Bible.

The unicorn is most often associated with medieval Europe, in which it became a powerful and ubiquitous symbol of purity, Christ, and the incarnation. Conversely, it also became a symbol of courtly love and later of faithful marriage, and its pulverized horn was considered to be an aphrodisiac. The spiral horn of the narwhal, a marine animal, was often sold as a unicorn horn during the medieval era. In medieval lore, the horn was said to possess the ability to neutralize poison. In addition, many legends held that the creature could only be caught or mounted by a virgin.

The unicorn is prevalent in much medieval art, most famously in two tapestry series. The Hunt of the Unicorn, a series of seven tapestries on display at the Cloisters in New York City, depicts noblemen who hunt and kill a unicorn with the help of a maiden. The creature is presented at a royal wedding feast, and the final tapestry shows it resurrected but tamed, sitting inside an enclosure under a pomegranate tree, a symbol of fertility. The series is rife with symbolism regarding both Christianity and marriage. The Lady and the Unicorn, a series of six tapestries on display at the Cluny museum in Paris, depicts each of the five senses along with "love." Unicorns appear in each tapestry in the series.

The unicorn is also an important symbol in heraldry, or coats of arms, where it represents purity, strength, and freedom. It was not widely used until the 15th century, but it became very popular around that time. It is sometimes shown collared, but more often with a broken collar, symbolizing its untamable spirit. It notably appears in the Scottish and British royal arms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a unicorn?

A unicorn is a mythical creature often depicted as a horse with a single, spiraling horn projecting from its forehead. Historically, it has been a symbol of purity and grace, with many cultures attributing magical or healing powers to it. Unicorns have been a part of folklore and legend for centuries, capturing human imagination across various societies.

Are unicorns real animals?

No, unicorns are not real animals. They are creatures of mythology and do not exist in the natural world. The belief in unicorns likely arose from misinterpretations or embellished accounts of real animals, such as the rhinoceros or the oryx, which might have been mistaken for unicorns by ancient observers.

What is the origin of the unicorn myth?

The origin of the unicorn myth can be traced back to ancient civilizations. Descriptions of creatures resembling unicorns appear in texts and artworks from India, China, and Greece. According to scholars, the myth may have originated from sightings of animals like the Indian rhinoceros, which were then woven into fantastical narratives.

What does the unicorn symbolize?

The unicorn is a symbol of many virtues. In Western culture, it often represents purity, innocence, and enchantment. Unicorns are also seen as symbols of freedom, magic, and healing. Throughout history, they have been used in heraldry and art to convey nobility and otherworldly power.

How have unicorns influenced popular culture?

Unicorns have had a significant influence on popular culture, appearing in literature, film, and art. They are prevalent in fantasy genres, embodying magical qualities that appeal to the imagination. The unicorn has also become a pop culture icon, representing a trend of whimsy and playfulness in fashion, media, and even internet memes.

What are some notable appearances of unicorns in literature?

Unicorns have graced the pages of many literary works, from the ancient myths of Greece to modern fantasy novels. Notable appearances include the beloved children's classic "The Last Unicorn" by Peter S. Beagle, the "Harry Potter" series by J.K. Rowling, where unicorn blood has magical properties, and C.S. Lewis's "The Chronicles of Narnia," where a unicorn is a noble creature aiding the protagonists.

Niki Foster
Niki Foster

In addition to her role as a AllThingsNature editor, Niki enjoys educating herself about interesting and unusual topics in order to get ideas for her own articles. She is a graduate of UCLA, where she majored in Linguistics and Anthropology.

Learn more...
Niki Foster
Niki Foster

In addition to her role as a AllThingsNature editor, Niki enjoys educating herself about interesting and unusual topics in order to get ideas for her own articles. She is a graduate of UCLA, where she majored in Linguistics and Anthropology.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon13492

wel thanks for information but why does the unicorn prefer only maidens. i mean why do they believe in maidens??????????????plz

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A unicorn is mentioned in some versions of the Bible.
      By: gordo25
      A unicorn is mentioned in some versions of the Bible.