Beasts of the Desert: Marginalia in the Book of Deer

The Book of Deer (Cambridge University Library, MS. Ii.6.32), an Insular manuscript usually dated to the first half of the tenth century, contains numerous marginal creatures that interact with the manuscript’s text and framed images. Among Insular gospel-books, only the Book of Kells contains comparable marginalia. An analysis of these decorative interruptions demonstrates that the creatures highlight specific passages of gospel text, emphasizing that the death and sacrifice of Christ paves the way for the soul’s resurrection and union with God the Father. The creatures show a close association with the stone carvings of Northeast Scotland both in terms of their thematic focus and the realistic yet abbreviated representation of animal behaviour. These themes are also conveyed by decorative motifs such as the saltire cross, cross and lozenge that occur within the full-page imagery and decorated initials. Together, these small decorative details enhance the intimacy and authenticity of the viewer’s experience and demonstrate the manuscript’s intended purpose as spiritual nourishment for sick and the dying as they make their final journey to God through the witness of Christ.