Khoa Doan

Dragons in the Rituals and Customs of China’s Ethnic Minorities

In China, the dragon is a universal symbol of power, prosperity, and divine protection. While the Han Chinese have widely celebrated the dragon in mainstream culture, the ethnic minorities of China—which include over 55 officially recognized groups—have also developed unique traditions and customs surrounding the dragon. Each ethnic group interprets the dragon differently, integrating it…

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Dragons in Chinese Theater and Performing Arts

Dragons have played a central role in Chinese performing arts for centuries, appearing in theater, dance, opera, and traditional performances as powerful symbols of strength, wisdom, and prosperity. Unlike the fearsome and villainous dragons of Western folklore, Chinese dragons are often benevolent and majestic, representing imperial power, divine protection, and cosmic balance. Their presence in…

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Dragons in Painted Depictions of Chinese Epic Stories

Dragons have played a crucial role in Chinese epic stories and historical myths, symbolizing power, wisdom, protection, and divine intervention. Unlike Western dragons, often portrayed as destructive creatures, Chinese dragons (龙, lóng) are benevolent beings that represent cosmic balance, imperial authority, and spiritual guidance. Traditional Chinese paintings (国画, guóhuà) have long been a medium for…

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