Silas and the Mesmerizing History of Dragons

Silas the dragon is first introduced in Toast of Blood as Thaddeus’s ally. Thaddeus is the Lord of the Underworld. Not only is Silas incredibly strong and wise but he is a powerful mindreader. He also has the ability to possess people and like many others of his kind is lazy, but intelligent. Silas depends on Thaddeus to add treasure to his hoard and in exchange for treasure Silas promises to help Thaddeus bring down Raven. He can be found in his home in a cave located in the mountains of the Underworld. 

Dragons play a unique role in both history and in modern life.

Not unlike dragons in early European history, Silas is a defender. He protects the Underworld and his hoard of trinkets and treasures. By the dawn of the Middle Ages in Europe dragons gained a reputation as being destructive and violent. In China and Japan though, they were considered protectors during that time, in much the same way as in earlier time periods in Europe. According to Greek and Roman history dragons were thought to frequent the land and were guardians who protected sacred places and were obstacles for heroes. They represented wisdom or danger.

Christianity likely influenced the view of the dragon in medieval Europe.

According to Christian beliefs between the 5th and 15th centuries dragons were associated with evil and Satan as portrayed for example in Revelation. They were considered foes for saints including St. George and Michael. Portrayal of the dragon today was introduced through Norse and Germanic influence through tales including Beowulf and Nibelungenlied. In these tales the creatures were depicted as hoarding treasure, breathing fire, living in caves, and were associated with destruction. The appearance of the dragon has changed over time as well. They were originally thought to be like serpents and they evolved into having four legs, being scaly, and having bat-like wings. Silas fits the description of the traditional medieval-European-style dragon, which is how dragons are generally viewed in modern society today.

Silas is well suited for his role in the Raven of Axelgard Trilogy, as the Middle Kingdom is medieval as well as the Underworld.

Silas’s “rule” in the Underworld spans over the course of centuries and he has a longstanding history and reputation for both his ferocity and dedication to protecting the land. The richest history of dragons comes from the Tang, Song, and Yuan eras in medieval China which regarded the creatures as protective and auspicious beings.

There are four dragons or directional deities which were held in high esteem in the country and represented the directions north, south, east and west. The directional deities guarded China’s rivers, thus protecting humanity and ensuring water for survival.

For example the Qinglong or Azure Dragon guarded the east and represented spring, renewal and protection. Lastly, these creatures were regarded as having imperial authority and were viewed as a cosmic protector and emblem of rightful rule and as such protected the emperor.

Although there are no emperors in the Underworld, Silas also protectors the ruler of the realm, which is Thaddeus. 

The importance of the dragon as a protector and guardian throughout history is shared between both China and Japan.

There are a lot of similarities between dragons in Japan and those in China, both of which had four directional deities. Information about the creatures in Japan were documented by examining ancient tomb murals and influenced medieval cosmology.

In Japan dragons were also associated with rain, storms, and heavenly protection and were considered benevolent, just, and powerful.

Silas is more of a Western society style dragon than a Japanese dragon, however in terms of historical context the Eastern society dragons definitely play a significant role.

Today it is not uncommon that people will talk about their Chinese zodiac signs and compare notes, and that includes the year of the dragon. For those who have this zodiac sign they are thought to embody power, strength, good fortune, and success. Whatever meaning these creatures hold for you, the takeaway is that there are many things that this creature represents and has a long, varied history. 

Silas is a mischievous creature who, though Thaddeus considers friend and ally, at the end of the day is only seeking to satisfy his own desires. He loves gold and enjoys sleeping over the course of centuries if he has the chance to. If you disturb his slumber you best watch out because you may find yourself on the menu.