Mythical Creatures – Part 2

Mythical creatures gained popularity through literary circulation and story-telling. They are creatures which are believed to be real beings, but there isn’t enough evidence out there to prove that.

List of 5 Popular Mythical Creatures

1. Dragon

The creature called Dragon has two origins, European(derived from European, Greek and Middle Eastern mythologies) and Chinese(derived from Japanese, Chinese, Korean and other East Asian folklore). Common to both origins, the dragon is a huge reptilian, fire breathing creature living in caves, mountains or lakes. While in some cultures they are considered a cause of havoc, in some other cultures they are also a sign of peace and prosperity.

2. Unicorn

The word unicorn comes from the Latin words uni meaning one and cornus meaning horn. A unicorn is said a be a beautiful and pure woodland creature which resembles a white horse with one single spiralling horn protruding from its forehead. Its horn is said to have the power to make poisoned water potable and to heal sickness.

3. Werewolf

A werewolf is a mythical human with the ability to turn into a wolf-like creature. This transformation is often associated with the appearance of a full-moon.

4. Cerberus

In Roman and Greek mythology, Cerberus is a 3 headed dog guarding the entrance to the Underworld. It would only allow people to enter the place of the dead, but never allowed them to leave. Only a few have ever managed to escape from him. Among them was Orpheus, a Greek musician who lulled it to sleep by playing a lyre.

5. Gorgons

The Gorgons were 3 frightful sisters, Medusa, Stheno and Euryale, who had hair of living, venomous snakes. In addition, Medusa is said to have a deadly stare which could turn a person to stone. Stheno had sharp fangs and Euryale was known for her bellowing cries.

For more such mythical creatures also read: Mythical Creatures – Part 1.