An exploration of dragons in classical mythology

Abstract

This thesis investigates the origins of some key physical features and behavioural functions of the modern dragon, and the way that these features are reflected in classical myth. Through studying the genesis and development of these features as they are presented in Greek and Latin literature and iconography, this thesis aims to show the way in which the ancient world establishes a grammar and aesthetics of the monstrous that facilitates the birth of the modern dragon.This thesis will argue that aspects of ancient creatures are at the root of some of the key features present in the modern dragon. It begins with a survey of ideas relating to the modern dragon and the monstrous before focussing on two key elements present in the ancient texts – the physical features of dragons and their narrative function. The discussion of the physical aspects of the dragon shows how all the key elements of the modern dragon, its large serpentine body, wings, and fiery breath, are present in ancient myth. Similarly, the discussion of narrative function looks at the way in which Greek and Roman myth also promotes the idea of these monstrous serpents as guardians of precious object. Other narrative commonplaces such as the ‘attendant maiden’ are also discussed.This thesis does not argue that there is a direct, uncomplicated translation of ancient stories about monstrous serpents into the modern dragon, rather the aim of this thesis is to show ways in which ancient myth creates a ‘thought world’ about the image and function of the monstrous that is conducive to the development of the idea of the modern dragon that we find in the works of Tolkien, Lewis, Rowling, and Martin.