The Top 10 Dragons

Dragons have been one of the most captivating myths throughout history, sparking debates over whether such creatures ever existed. Various civilizations have left behind records of dragon-like beings, whether depicted on totem poles, in cave paintings, or mentioned in stories. While dinosaurs roamed the Earth, none resembled the dragons from legend. These creatures differ greatly in form, from the towering, reptilian creatures often fought by valiant knights to the sleek, serpentine beings found in Eastern myth. Across cultures, dragons continue to ignite our imagination and remain prominent in folklore. Here are ten of the most iconic dragons from film, literature, and history.

10. Eragon

Written by Christopher Paolini, Eragon follows the journey of a young farm boy who discovers an extraordinary stone that conceals a dragon named Sephira. Together, they challenge the forces of darkness and embark on a path to become skilled Dragon Riders. The book was adapted into a feature film, and its story continues in the subsequent novel, Eldest. The trilogy, initially a three-book series, will now be expanded to four books, with the third installment slated for release on September 23, 2008.

In Disney's animated film, Mushu (voiced by Eddie Murphy), the mischievous Oriental dragon, stays by the side of Mulan, a woman who wishes she could be a man to join the war. Throughout the story, Mushu supports Mulan, and she eventually falls in love with a prince, leading to a happy ending for all.

In Christian hagiography, St. George (275-303 AD) engaged in a victorious battle against a monstrous dragon, saving countless cities and earning the title of a reluctant hero in what is now modern-day Turkey. He became a revered Christian martyr. In 1941, Disney adapted Kenneth Grahame's novel *The Reluctant Dragon*, where St. George (or Sir Giles) faces off against an older dragon known as ‘The Timid Dragon’. St. George is, of course, the Patron Saint of England.

Within the Marvel universe, Fin Fang Foom is a colossal, alien serpent-like dragon (sometimes depicted as a four-legged dragon). This creature has fought against various superhero teams, including the Fantastic Four and Iron Man. Fin Fang Foom can hibernate with the help of magic and a special herb, but when he emerges, he causes considerable destruction.

The 1996 film *Dragonheart* introduced one of the most impressive and realistic digitally-created dragons ever seen. Voiced by the legendary Sean Connery, Draco is the last of his kind, targeted by the rage of a village and ultimately pursued by the knight Bowen (played by Dennis Quaid). The two craft a plan together, and Draco's tale evolves into a part of legend.

Voiced by Gary Wilmot, this beloved children's character has been a staple in classrooms and on kids' television since 1986. The Lollipop Dragon, along with his companions, consistently faces the villainous Baron Bad Blood in various adaptations of the show, always managing to save the day.

J.R.R. Tolkien, the creator of iconic literary figures like the Hobbits, the malevolent Saruman, and the fearsome Uruk-hai, also gave birth to the ancient dragon Smaug. Smaug, who resides in *The Hobbit*, guards the treasure hoard within the Lonely Mountain. When Bilbo Baggins finds an exposed area on Smaug’s gem-covered belly, the Dwarves are able to reclaim their rightful riches.

It is a curious young boy named Bastion who stumbles upon a book about *The Neverending Story*, a tale set in the dying world of Fantasia. In this world, the hero Atreyu faces a series of challenges as he fights to save the land from the evil force known as Nothing. Along his journey, Atreyu encounters a Luck Dragon named Falcor, who becomes his loyal companion and close friend.

Who wouldn’t want a sometimes-invisible dragon as a best friend? Pete certainly does, but Elliot’s mischievous nature and childlike innocence often lead to trouble in the town of Passamaquoddy. His ability to breathe fire proves essential in the end, when he redeems himself by lighting a crucial lighthouse torch.

Originally written as a song by Peter, Paul, and Mary, Puff the Magic Dragon has sparked numerous myths over the years, including the controversial idea that ‘puffing the magic dragon’ referred to smoking marijuana. Despite these rumors, all members of the band have denied such interpretations, stating that the song was intended to be whimsical and magical, with no connection to drug use. The song eventually led to the creation of a 1978 movie, with Puff voiced by Burgess Meredith.

Notable Omissions: Tiamat

Contributor: StewWriter