Dragon Legends – Things to Keep in Mind When Writing Dragon Legends

dragon legends

From ancient China to Mesoamerica, dragon legends are ubiquitous across dozens of cultures. In fact, it is a testament to their staying power that they are still with us today.

One of the most common mythological themes involving dragons is that they are chaotic beings, responsible for death and disorder, and vanquished by gods or heroes. This tradition has its roots in the traditions of Eurasia and parts of East Africa, but is prevalent in India, Iran, and Europe as well.

Another tradition is that dragons are powerful and helpful beings. This tradition is particularly prevalent in cultures of East Asia, notably China and Japan.

These tales are often told in such a way as to make them look more like fables than actual historical accounts. They feature dragons of various sizes and shapes, from the huge Vritra who trapped all the sacred rivers in a single mountain to the Chinese goddess Nuwa who cleaned up China after a dragon’s mess.

Regardless of whether they’re true stories or mere fantasy, these tales are rich in details and emotion. They can be incredibly moving when properly told, so here are some things you should keep in mind when writing your own dragon legends:

Remember, no matter what creatures your dragons are, they should have distinct personalities. Just as people have different temperaments and reactions to problems, so should dragons.