3. The Hare

To our ancestors, the hare was a mysterious creature with many sides to its character.

It was a beast associated with the moon and a companion to the Norse Goddess, Freya.

In Christian legend, its familiarity was seen as a mark of lustfulness, but medieval bestiaries perceived its cowering nature as a sign of trust in Christ.

Even Julius Caesar noted that Britons were loath to eat hares because they were sacred.

Joanna Pinnock and expert contributors, explore the fascinating myth and reality surrounding this timid creature.

Another in the series examining the importance of five groups of animals and birds to the ancient cultures of Britain.

Producer Brett Westwood

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 1999.