Dragon year is the most expected year by the Chinese. Most Chinese prefer dragon child especially dragon boy to children born in different year. It is believed that children born in the year of dragon will be exceptionally intelligent. Dragons are legendary creatures. I do not want to get into the prolific debates on whether Chinese dragons are the symbol of the Ancient Serpent mentioned in the Bible or to discuss whether they are dragons or dinosaurs. I am keener to look at the dragon from a culturally perspective that implicitly speaks of Chinese worldviews and values. Chinese do use the dragon to symbolize their identity – descendents of the dragons to describe strong determination to pursue success and not simply giving up to hard circumstances.
Dragon is always depicted as flying alone controlling one particular zone such as the east seas or the sky and sometimes with its partner – the phoenix. Whilst the dragon is not rarely depicted living in groups or in community. This idea reflects strong “individualism” and desire for power that stands aloof. There is a Chinese saying, “one man is like a dragon whilst two men are two worms”. Another Chinese proverb says, “Two tigers cannot live on one mountain”. In the Zhou dynasty, dragons are classified by claws. The 5-clawed dragon assigned to the Son of Heaven (emperor), the 4-clawed dragons the nobles (zhuhou) and the 3-clawed dragons the minister. In ancient Chinese society, people are classified into four broad categories – scholars (people in rank and status), farmers (those who own farms and pay tax), artisans and craftsmen (skillful people) and finally the merchants and traders (they are considered not producing anything and known for their greed). Instead of flying with wings, Chinese dragons swirl through clouds and seas. It is very true that Chinese had experienced much adversity throughout their history. “The swirling dragon” depicts how Chinese would fight for survivors in the midst of difficulties. They swirl through difficulties without giving up. According to Chinese culture, dragons are not aggressive but calm in nature. Chinese have to strive to be man of culture or a true gentleman (civilized man). Man of culture is someone who can control his emotion well that is to remain calm, serene and self-composed in every situation.
