---
title: Dragon
description: Differences between Eastern and Western dragons.
author:
  name: Graciela Paula Caldeiro
  url: http://graciela-caldeiro.idoneos.com
canonical: https://mitosyleyendas.idoneos.com/en/bestiario_mitologico/dragon/
source: en/bestiario_mitologico/dragon/index.md
---

<figure class="commons-illustration" data-commons-id="45891195">
  <img src="/bestiario_mitologico/dragon/resources/commons-dragon-45891195.jpg" width="1492" height="744" alt="A winged dragon with a long tail and red tongue confronts an elephant in a medieval miniature." loading="lazy" decoding="async">
  <figcaption>Dragon. Anonymous, Harley manuscript 3244, British Library.<br>Source: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Dragon_3244.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wikimedia Commons</a>. Public domain.</figcaption>
</figure>


<h2 id="dragon">Dragon</h2>

The dragon is a fantastical creature that can be found in most ancient traditions; however, its symbolism tends to differ. Thus, while the dragons of Western Europe are regarded as highly dangerous animals representing the forces of evil, in the East—China in particular—the dragon is a benevolent being of divine lineage.

The most common depictions attribute to it a large, voluminous body. Scales give it the appearance of a reptile, though its claws, closer to those of a feline, contrast with its bat-like wings. The ability to breathe fire from its mouth and enormous teeth complete the aspect of this fabulous creature, halfway between a serpent and a lion.