Dragon

Mythical creature in various cultures

For other uses, see Dragon (disambiguation).

Illustration of a dragon from 1806

A dragon is a large, serpentine legendary creature that appears in the folklore of many cultures worldwide. Beliefs about dragons vary drastically by region, but dragons in western cultures since the High Middle Ages have often been depicted as winged, horned, and capable of breathing fire. Dragons in eastern cultures are usually depicted as wingless, four-legged, serpentine creatures with above-average intelligence.

Etymology

The English word "dragon" derives from the Greek word "drakōn," which means "serpent" or "giant sea fish." The Latin word "draco" also means "serpent" and is the source of the English word "draconian," meaning "harsh" or "severe."

Mythology and Folklore

Western Dragons

In Western mythology, dragons are often portrayed as evil creatures that hoard treasure and are slain by heroes. The image of the dragon as a fire-breathing, winged beast is a common motif in European folklore.

Depiction of a dragon from the epic poem Beowulf

Medieval Europe

In medieval Europe, dragons were often depicted as large, fire-breathing, scaly lizards or serpents with wings, claws, and a barbed tail. They were often associated with evil and chaos. The dragon in the epic poem Beowulf is a prime example of this depiction.

Heraldry

Dragons were also used in heraldry, where they symbolized power, strength, and the ability to overcome adversity. The Welsh Dragon is a notable example, appearing on the national flag of Wales.

Eastern Dragons

In contrast, Eastern dragons are often seen as benevolent creatures associated with water, rainfall, and agriculture. They are revered as symbols of power, strength, and good fortune.

Nine-Dragon Wall in China

Chinese Dragons

Chinese dragons are legendary creatures in Chinese mythology and folklore. They are traditionally depicted as long, scaled, serpentine creatures with four legs. Unlike their Western counterparts, Chinese dragons are benevolent and associated with auspicious powers, particularly control over water, rainfall, typhoons, and floods.

Japanese Dragons

Japanese dragons are similar to Chinese dragons but are often depicted as more serpentine and less winged. They are also associated with water and are considered to be water deities.

Dragons in Religion and Myth

Mesopotamian Mythology

In ancient Mesopotamian mythology, dragons were often depicted as chaos monsters. The Sirrush is a famous dragon-like creature from the Ishtar Gate of Babylon.

Depiction of the Sirrush on the Ishtar Gate

Biblical References

The Bible contains several references to dragons, often symbolizing chaos and evil. The Leviathan is a sea monster mentioned in the Old Testament, often interpreted as a dragon.

The destruction of Leviathan

Egyptian Mythology

In Egyptian mythology, the serpent Apep is a dragon-like creature that embodies chaos and is the enemy of the sun god Ra.

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Set spearing Apep

Cultural Depictions

Literature

Dragons have been a popular subject in literature, from ancient epics to modern fantasy novels. They often serve as formidable adversaries or wise mentors.

Art and Architecture

Dragons are a common motif in art and architecture, symbolizing power and protection. They are often depicted in sculptures, paintings, and carvings.

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Rustam kills the dragon, from the Shahnameh

Related Pages

• Wyvern
• Leviathan
• Chinese dragon
• Welsh Dragon
• Yamata no Orochi