Summary

Codex Extinct Animalia

The narrator describes the Codex as “an anatomical reference manual, a common endeavor among naturalists at the time.” (p. 66). He says that it is not known whether there are still specimens that correspond with these drawings. In the sections for the other ten animals, a brief description is followed by numerous drawings to illustrate the anatomical structures, from bones to muscles and organs.

Sphinx Alatus

In the entry for the Sphinx, the narrator says that Dr. Black likely anticipated that his specimens would be destroyed, so the Codex is a map for other scientists to follow. Dr. Black says that sphinxes typically had the head of a ram or goat, although they developed human minds and advanced intellects.

Siren Oceanus

In the narrator’s introduction, the siren, or mermaid, is presented as a plausible sea creature, which many...