Dragons, a famous imaginary creature born from fantasy, are often present in stories in the west and east. In both cultures, dragons are recognized as massive creatures capable of flight. They have great power and magical abilities. However, due to their different cultural roots and images, there are significant differences in the different dragon elements in the west and east, particularly in China.
Chinese dragons most look like snakes, and have four claws (爪) and no wings. They often have features of other animals, including carp, tigers, and eagles. In the contrast, Western dragons look like huge lizards (蜥蜴) with big claws and large bat-like wings, and are often shown rough scales.
In traditional Chinese culture, a dragon is a symbol of luck, power and high position. They can cause weather changes and bring rainfall to the fields to ensure rich harvests. They are considered sacred creatures, which hold an important position as the head of the four spirits. Therefore, to symbolize their power, ancient Chinese emperors decorated their clothes with dragon patterns. These clothes are known as dragon robes. Many Chinese view the dragon as a national symbol, proudly referring to themselves as “descendants of the dragon”. In the west, however, a dragon symbolizes an evil creature that spreads violence and terror throughout the land. They are believed to be transformed by the devil (魔鬼), with the ability to breathe fire or spit poison. Many western tales show dragons being defeated and killed to protect people from danger.
Today, dragons continue to change, finding new significance in global culture. They are no longer connected with evil or good, but with their own unique personalities and motivations. For example, Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon begins as a dangerous dragon but changes into a misunderstood creature with love and kindness. This changes the idea of dragons as naturally evil, showing their both emotions and motivations.
【小题1】What do western dragons and eastern dragons have in common?| A．They have rough skin. | B．They have big claws and wings. |
| C．They are in the shape of snakes. | D．They are huge and powerful. |
| A．Dragons are believed to make trouble in western culture. |
| B．Dragons in China can protect people from danger. |
| C．Chinese dragons can control rainfall and breathe fire. |
| D．Western dragons are a symbol of authority. |
| A．They are regarded as adventurous creatures. |
| B．They are closely linked with evil or good. |
| C．They have more various emotions and personalities. |
| D．They represent human spirits facing challenges. |
| A．The Origin of Dragons in Chinese History | B．The Dragon Elements in World Culture |
| C．The Magical Animals in Different Countries | D．The Images of Dragons in Western Traditions |
