Dragons are popular because they are universal symbols of power, magic, and the unknown, appearing in myths across cultures and evolving into compelling characters in modern fantasy. Their appeal stems from their adaptability to any setting, their power as formidable villains or benevolent allies, and their roots in our evolutionary need to explain and personify real-world threats like large predators and natural phenomena.

Dragon lore spans cultures, with Eastern traditions often portraying dragons as benevolent, wise, and symbols of good fortune, while Western myths typically depict them as malevolent, fire-breathing creatures associated with chaos and evil, overcome by heroic knights. These creatures are often serpentine but vary widely in form, from wingless creatures with poison to winged, horned, scaly, and fire-breathing beasts. Dragon myths have roots in ancient beliefs and are often intertwined with religious and cultural narratives, appearing in both ancient texts and modern fantasy works.