Western dragons are mythical creatures often depicted as large, winged reptiles with the ability to breathe fire. They are commonly portrayed in European folklore and literature, symbolizing power, greed, and destruction. These dragons typically have scaly skin, sharp claws, and long tails, and they are often shown hoarding treasure in caves or castles. In contrast to their Eastern counterparts, which are usually seen as benevolent, Western dragons are often viewed as malevolent beings that heroes must defeat. They frequently appear in stories and legends, such as those involving King Arthur or Beowulf, where they serve as formidable adversaries to be vanquished.