Chamouil Iwas

Arch 532 Q2
Symbols are universally used as major elements to represent cultures along with
features like language, beliefs, and norms. Symbols such as the medieval dragon and swastika
carry varied interpretations based on regions of the world utilizing them. Even if a symbol
maintains a common profile, its explication may be modified to the point where it represents
something completely different than before. Changes in color, structure, and connotation prove
this. Symbols are, in fact, dynamic as Wittkower portrays in “East and West” of ​Allegory and the
Migration of Symbols.​ Wittkower mentions, “The difference of interpretation of similar
themes...as well as similarities of formal approaches potentially embedded in different traditions,
cannot be overlooked”.1The meaning of symbols change as they are presented across different
cultures due to physical characteristics being altered.

A well known symbol that may be interpreted accordingly based on culture is the dragon.
The dragon is a common symbol that represents different ideologies from different groups of
people around the world. Comparing the physical characteristics and meanings behind the
dragon in European and Oriental culture shows diversity. In European culture, the dragon entity
is associated with evilness. With characteristics such as dark colors, bat-like wings, longer head
with a body, and reptile eyes, the connotation is more of a negative one. The dragon also
served as a mark of greed during the 17th century. On the other hand, Oriental culture narrates
the dragon as a symbol of supernatural power, wisdom, and knowledge. It is celebrated during
regional events such as China’s Dragon Boat Race and Japan’s Golden Dragon Dance.
According to the Ancient History Encyclopedia, “​Despite the dragon’s fearsome aspect, it was
not usually seen as the bad-intentioned monster that inhabits the myths of other cultures around
the world where it is typically slain by a brave hero figure​”.2 Physically, the image of the symbol
is portrayed with bright colors such as red and gold, a larger head, a snake-like body without
wings, and four short legs. Although both regions consider the dragon as a powerful creature,
opposing images and explanations lead to a difference in the symbol’s overall representation.

Another symbol found to be interpreted diversey based on culture is the swastika.

Differences in meaning and physical attributes are found in Eruasian and Indo European
culture. The ancient swastika, present in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Odinism served as
a positive symbol promoting fertility. Its name is derived from the Sanskrit term, “svastika”
referring to “good fortune” or “well being”.3Though the symbol itself looks alike in Indoeuropea
culture, the image gradually evolved into a common emblem of Aryan identity during the

1
Wittkower, Rudolf. “East and West,” Allegory and the Migration of Symbols
Edited by Margot Wittkower (New York: Thames and Hudson, 1977)
2
Cartwright, Mark. “The Dragon in Ancient China.” ​Ancient History Encyclopedia,​ Ancient History
Encyclopedia, 29 Sept. 2017, www.ancient.eu/article/1125/the-dragon-in-ancient-china/.
3
Museum, United States Holocaust. “The History of the Swastika.” ​United States Holocaust Memorial
Museum​, encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/article/history-of-the-swastika. 2017
nineteenth century. It became an instantly recognizable icon for Nazi propaganda. The forty five
degree rotation and printed color scheme created a representation of the swastika that people
would associate to evilness, fear, and fascism.

In conclusion, symbols with changed physical characteristics also impact original

meanings behind them. Across different cultures, common images are adjusted depending on
those who move with them. Symbols do not stay static as the smallest of modifications can alter
the story that goes with them. Examples such as the dragon and swastika evolve throughout
time and have taken upon suitable characteristics from assorted regions.