Throughout Europe, and particularly in an historic region of northern Belgium, there is a story that has been told and retold for centuries.

This medieval fable was famously adapted by a mysterious Dutch poet known only as “Willem who made Madocke” (the original Madocke itself a mysterious work lost to history), and tells the epic tale of Reynard the Fox.

The sly fox Reynard is the central character in the story and is, to put it simply, a rogue figure. He is a charismatic trickster who uses his guile and cunning to deceive his enemies to benefit himself and his friends. Observing human traits in animals has been common in literature throughout the ages and so Reynard and his contemporaries represent much of what people, particularly in Medieval times, used to make sense of their world. The lion, a symbol of royalty and strength, the snake a symbol of death and rebirth, the goose of folly and silliness and the wolf who is seen as the greatest threat due to its predatory nature and the sworn enemy of the shepherd. And here is where Reynard comes in. The fox is related to the wolf but differs in that it is a solitary beast while the wolf hunts in packs. Therefore, the fox cannot rely on the strength of numbers and brute force so it must rely on its cunning mind instead.

Throughout the story, Reynard employs his wit to deceive and manipulate others, often using flattery and false promises to achieve his goals. He cunningly avoids being held accountable for his actions, making him a fascinating and complex character.

The fable not only highlights the intelligence and resourcefulness of Reynard but also serves as a moral lesson about the consequences of deceit and the importance of honesty. It explores themes of power, justice, and the inherent nature of individuals. Reynard The Fox is a captivating tale that showcases the cleverness and trickery of its titular character while imparting valuable lessons about morality and the consequences of one’s actions. The timeless saga has also inspired contemporary retellings including Disney’s version of ‘Robin Hood’.

Notably, the stories of Reynard the Fox explore the importance of integrity while acknowledging the triumph of craft over brute strength… a sentiment mirrored by the beers from Madocke Beer Brewing Company.