Iconic Dragons of Fantasy Literature

Smaug, from Tolkien's 'The Hobbit,' wasn't just a mere dragon; he was a symbol of greed and destruction. His immense size is eclipsed only by his cunning intellect and the vast treasure he hoards under the Lonely Mountain.

Ancalagon, from 'The Silmarillion,' overshadowed Smaug in might. This beast was so colossal that his fall broke an entire mountain range. He was bred by Morgoth during the First Age, making him one of the oldest known dragons.

In 'A Song of Ice and Fire', Balerion the Black Dread could swallow an ox whole. His flames forged the Iron Throne. He was so ancient that his origins predate the recorded history of Westeros.

Glaurung, another of Tolkien's creations, is considered the first Middle-earth dragon. His psychological warfare and hypnotic powers were as devastating as his physical presence. He brought entire kingdoms to ruin without a single breath of fire.

Drogon, one of Daenerys Targaryen's dragons in 'A Song of Ice and Fire,' is not the largest, but his rebirth symbolizes the return of magic. His growth and power reflect Daenerys's own rise from exiled princess to conquering queen.

Some dragon hearts in mythology are said to beat forever, even after death, symbolizing their eternal power and connection to magic.