Dragons are a significant force in
fantasy fiction and fandom, yet remain one of the least understood mythical
creatures of all time. They remain popular in large part because of the
cultural legacy they have been given over the centuries. But the elusive nature
of the larger-than-life beasts also helps generate interest; mystery almost
always fuels controversy. In many ways, people see a part of themselves in
these massive animals, and it is this, above all, that has helped them earn a
spot in the collective consciousness of humanity. But, how do fantasy writers
create authentic dragons? More to the point, how do we will into existence
fictional creatures that prove engaging to an audience? This post explores
these questions, and attempts to provide some insights and answers that may
help the writer on their creative journey.
One of
the most notable differences between dragons is cultural. Eastern and Western
dragons have historically each been distinct species that share only minimal
characteristics. This is especially true in the context of Chinese dragons,
when compared to “western,” creatures of the same name. Chinese dragons are
predominantly aquatic beings worthy of respect and reverence. They are
wingless, serpentine creatures who prefer the life of a hermit. Chinese
dragons, however, can often fly as if propelled by magic, despite their lack of
visible wings.
One such
example is the Chiao-lung, which is a riparian dragon-deity that is said to
harbor a preference for swallows. Legend says that one should avoid water after
they consume one of the small birds, for the Chiao-lung will almost certainly
eat the person just to get a mere taste of the diminutive avian creature. In
some traditional folklore, eating the flesh of one of these dragons will cure
or prevent some skin diseases.
As a side
note, Japanese dragons, while adhering to many of the traits typically ascribed
to Eastern dragons, are said to have only three toes, compared to Chinese
dragons that are often depicted as possessing four or five.
Western
dragons, however, are often depicted not only with wings and larger bodies, but
also are fire-breathing monstrosities deserving of our fear. The personality
and temperament are important focal points when discussing dragons, for some of
the most important distinctions result from how these arcane beasts are perceived.
In the West, dragons are typically viewed as vile monsters, dangerous,
rapacious creatures with malicious intent. Compare this to the East, where
literal shrines have been erected in homage to the beasts, and where dragons
form an essential part of cultural identities.
In one of
the West’s most fecund literary works, Beowulf, an avaricious dragon went on a
brutal campaign of revenge as he sought to retrieve treasures taken from it by
the king, Beowulf. The epic poem then takes on the tale of a frail monarch
fighting the forces of evil, ultimately successful though irrevocably harmed in
the process. It is these sorts of examples, seen frequently throughout the
iconic works of early Europe, that have helped shape the images of dragons for
millions as instruments of terror and unmitigated horror.
Now that
we’ve discussed some of the distinctions between Eastern and Western dragons,
stay tuned for the next installment, when we look at the importance of dragon
colors.
Exist and
thrive, grays.
We will meet again soon.
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2018. Copyright: William Gray. All rights reserved.
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