A dragon is a large, serpentine legendary creature that appears in the folklore of many cultures around the world. Beliefs about dragons vary considerably through regions, but dragons in western cultures since the High Middle Ages have often been depicted as winged, horned, four-legged, and capable of breathing fire. Dragons in eastern cultures are usually depicted as wingless, four-legged, serpentine creatures with above-average intelligence.
The earliest attested reports of draconic creatures resemble giant snakes. Draconic creatures are first described in the mythologies of the ancient Near East and appear in ancient Mesopotamian art and literature. Stories about storm-gods slaying giant serpents occur throughout nearly all Indo-European and Near Eastern mythologies.
The word “dragon” has also come to be applied to the Chinese lung which is associated with good fortune and is thought to have power over rain.
Dragons and dragon motifs are featured in many works of modern literature, particularly within the fantasy genre.
One of the most iconic modern dragons is Smaug from J. R. R. Tolkien’s classic novel The Hobbit. Dragons also appear in the best-selling Harry Potter series of children’s novels by J. K. Rowling, George R. R. Martin’s series A Song of Ice and Fire (Game of Thrones), Merlin a British fantasy-adventure drama television, etc.
In the Orient, the dragon symbolizes supernatural power, wisdom, strength, and hidden knowledge. In most traditions, it is the embodiment of chaos and untamed nature.
The Dragon is the symbol of primordial power. It is the master of all elements: fire, air, and earth. Dragons are messengers of balance and magic. They help you to view the world through the eyes of wonder and mystery. The dragon presence in your life calls your attention to your primordial strength and courage to face your deepest fears.