The Dragon

Abstract

Attempting to trace the mythos of the dragon would require an extensive search through world mythology and theology - and would show the different varieties of dragons that exist in the world. Author Dave Weldrake embarks upon this quest - to show the origin of many of the world's dragon myths. Dissecting the difference between the Eastern concept of dragons (a more elemental and benevolent beast) and the Western concept of dragons (evil, fear-inspiring creatures), Weldrake covers a wide range of myths and legends. Ancient civilizations, like the Sumerians and Egyptians, had their myths about dragons worked into their religion. The Greeks, too, had myths about heroes slaying dragons, such as Hercules, Jason, and Perseus. This is where the legends of dragons guarding treasure, as well as guarding fair maidens, get their origin. Weldrake also discusses the biblical and medieval connotation of dragons, of being hellspawn, and how Saint George, Saint Phillip, Saint Marthe, and Saint Romanus each defeated their dragons. He also discusses the legend of the Lambton Worm, a tale of a boy who fished on the sabbath, and it spawned a mighty dragon from a work. Weldrake then contends that according to Ethiopian legends, the body of the dragon was magical. The flesh, once consumed, cooled the person eating it, and had additional health benefits.