9 Different Types of Dragons You Should Know
Dragons have been a part of human mythology and folklore for centuries, and have been depicted in various forms across different cultures. From the Western dragon to the Japanese tatsu, each type of dragon has its own unique characteristics and legends associated with it.
In this article, we will explore the different types of dragons and their significance in various cultures, while also providing a few examples of each.
Western Dragon
The Western dragon is perhaps the most well-known type of dragon, commonly depicted in European folklore. It is often portrayed as a large, fire-breathing creature with wings and sharp claws. The Western dragon is known for its ferocity, and is often depicted as a symbol of chaos and destruction.
Eastern Dragon
The Eastern dragon is a type of dragon found in Asian mythology, and is often associated with water and rain. It is long and serpentine, with four legs, and is known for its wisdom and benevolence. Unlike the Western dragon, the Eastern dragon is not typically associated with fire or destruction.
Wyvern Dragon
A wyvern is a type of dragon with two legs and wings. It is often depicted as being smaller and less intelligent than a traditional dragon. In some legends, the wyvern is associated with dark magic and is known for its ability to poison its enemies.
Amphiptere Dragon
An amphiptere is a type of winged serpent dragon that has no legs, only wings. It is often associated with ancient Greek mythology, and is known for its agility and speed. In some legends, the amphiptere is said to be able to breathe fire, although this is not a common characteristic.
Lindworm Dragon
A lindworm is a type of dragon with two legs and no wings. It is often depicted as being more serpent-like than a traditional dragon, and is known for its cunning and intelligence. In some legends, the lindworm is associated with treasure and is said to guard hoards of gold and jewels.
Hydra Dragon
A hydra is a type of dragon with multiple heads. In Greek mythology, it was known for its ability to regrow its heads, making it nearly impossible to defeat. The hydra is often associated with chaos and destruction, and is a symbol of the dangers of hubris.
Drakon Dragon
The drakon is a type of dragon found in Greek mythology. It is often depicted as being serpent-like and wingless, and is known for its ferocity and strength. In some legends, the drakon is associated with guarding sacred places and treasures.
Knucker Dragon
A knucker is a type of dragon found in English folklore. It is often depicted as being serpentine and living in watery areas such as ponds or lakes. The knucker is known for its cunning and trickery, and is said to be able to shape-shift into other forms.
Tatsu
A tatsu is a type of Japanese dragon that is often depicted as being wingless and able to transform into a human form. It is associated with water and is known for its benevolence and wisdom. In some legends, the tatsu is said to be able to control the weather and is a symbol of good fortune.
Each type of dragon has its own unique characteristics and legends associated with it. From the ferocity of the Western dragon to the wisdom of the Eastern dragon, dragons have captured the imaginations of people around the world for centuries.
They have been depicted in literature, art, and film, and continue to be a popular subject in modern culture.
Famous Examples of Each Dragon Type
- Western dragon – Smaug from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit”
- Eastern dragon – Shenron from “Dragon Ball” series
- Wyvern – Maleficent’s dragon form from “Sleeping Beauty”
- Amphiptere – Fawkes the Phoenix from “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets”
- Lindworm – Jörmungandr from Norse mythology
- Drakon – Ladon from Greek mythology
- Sea dragon – Saphira from Christopher Paolini’s “Inheritance Cycle”
- Celestial dragon – Rayquaza from “Pokémon”
- Hydra – The Lernaean Hydra from Greek mythology
- Feathered dragon – Toothless from “How to Train Your Dragon” series.
In conclusion, the different types of dragons are a testament to the diversity of human mythology and folklore. Whether they are associated with fire and destruction or wisdom and benevolence, dragons continue to fascinate and inspire people of all ages and backgrounds.