The gryphon (also spelled griffon, griffin) is another mythical creature that is found in several cultures. A gryphon is said to have the head, wings and forelegs (or claws) of an eagle. Its hindquarters, tail and sometimes ears are that of a lion. The combination of these two creatures into one makes for an interesting symbol. The lion is seen for its strength and the eagle is looked to for its intelligence. Both are kings of beasts, with the lion having mastery over land while the eagle is the master of the sky. Thus, the gryphon becomes a symbol of duality, as well as a symbol of leadership.

Gryphons have been associated with ancient gods of the past. Apollo was said to have one for a mount and they have been referred to as the 'hounds of Zeus'. The gryphon was said to be the embodiment of Nemesis, goddes of retribution, and turned her wheel of fortune for her. In some myths, they represent the wealth of the sun. The gryphon has also been seen as the symbol of arrogant pride, because Alexander the Great was said to have tried to ride one to the edge of the sky.

The gryphon also shows up in Christianity, where at first it was seen as a satanic figure that entrapped human souls. Later, because it is a master of both land and sky, it came to symbolize the dual nature of Jesus Christ (both divine and human). In this way, the gryphon was saved from the fate of being seen as evil, as so many other mythical creatures had become.
The gryphon become a very popular heraldric figure as well and took its place in heraldry alongside the unicorn and lion.

In modern literature, I have noticed at least a couple of different ways of portraying gryphons. Sometimes, gryphons are seen as beastial and violent creatures, something for a lone traveler to be wary of. More commonly though, griffons are seen to be wise and intelligent creatures and some will even carry people on their backs. There are other variations as well.

I have not been able to find many links on the net dealing with gryphons. If you know of a link, please email me and let me know. Thanks!

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