In many cultures, dragons are considered to be powerful, noble creatures that bring with them signs of good to come. In reverse, such as in the western society, we believe that they are dark mysterious creatures, which knights were sent to slay. Out of all these beliefs and tales, myths have emerged over time, which are used to explain the unexplainable. Events such as creation, earthquakes and why the sun rises are subjects that cultures around the earth have formed myths around. The Chinese have created the myth of the four dragons in order to explain why it would rain. Many myths carry with them a piece of art or ritual that enforces the meaning of the myth within the culture. The Chinese did this by using dragon figures in many of their works of art, especially in the Emperor’s court.

Dragons occupy a very important position in Chinese mythology. They show up in art, literature, poetry, architecture, songs and many aspects of the Chinese conscience. The origin of Chinese dragons is unknown, but certainly pre-dates the written history. In some of the first recorded Chinese scripts there are references to dragons. (Dragons in Ancient China)

The Chinese dragon was a divine bringer of rain, necessary for the good of the people. Throughout Chinese history the dragon has been equated with weather. It is said that some of the worst floods were caused when a mortal has upset a dragon. The dragon was also a symbol of the emperor whose wisdom and divine power assured the well-being of his subjects. Many myths draw connections between the dragon and the emperor. Some emperors claimed to have descended from the dragon. The Chinese dragons are powerful creatures that are associated with good. (The Chinese Dragon). “Unlike the negative energies associated with Western Dragons, most Eastern Dragons are beautiful, friendly, and wise. They are the angels of the Orient. Instead of being hated, they are loved and worshipped. Temples and shrines have been built to honor them, for they control the rain, rivers, lakes and seas. Many Chinese cities have pagodas where people used to burn incense and pray to dragons.” (Chinese Dragons). The Chinese celebrate the New Year with a dragon dance and myth. Some emperors believed that they were decedents of dragons and others believed that they were special protectors. Because the dragon is such a big part of the Chinese culture, they also have many forms of art that contain dragons. The clothing of many high ranking figures, such as emperors and empresses contained finely embroidered dragon designs.

The myth and strength of the dragon in the Chinese culture is shown through its appearance in many of their traditions and artwork that is produced. The

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