In Our Time

Dragons

159 snips
Jul 24, 2025
Kelsey Granger, a postdoctoral researcher in Chinese history, shares insights on the cultural significance of dragons in China. Juliette Wood, an expert in Welsh folklore, contrasts Welsh dragons with their male counterparts, exploring gender dynamics. Daniel Ogden, a professor of ancient history, discusses the symbolism of dragons in Greek and Roman mythology. The conversation dives into dragons' evolving roles as terrifying beasts and revered deities across cultures, revealing their influence on literature, national identities, and contemporary media.
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INSIGHT

Chinese Dragons' Hybrid Nature

  • Chinese dragons are hybrid creatures combining features from various animals like ox, eagle, carp, and stag.
  • They were considered real and their bones used in medicine, symbolizing positive and beneficial forces in China.
INSIGHT

Western Dragons Evolve from Snakes

  • Western dragons likely derive from a snake plus supernatural elements, evolving in form from serpents to winged beasts.
  • The Western dragon concept is distinct from the Chinese dragon though they share a snake-like origin.
ANECDOTE

Real Animals Inspiring Dragon Lore

  • Romans reportedly killed a dragon during the Punic Wars and sent its skin back to Rome, possibly a Nile crocodile hide.
  • The Komodo dragon inspired dinosaur-like impressions but is actually a monitor lizard.
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