How do cultural interpretations influence the global perception of mythical creatures?

Mythical creatures, from dragons to unicorns, have permeated nearly every culture, each attributing different characteristics and symbolisms to these fantastical beings. While a dragon might be revered as a symbol of power and wisdom in Chinese mythology, it may represent greed and chaos in European folklore. Similarly, unicorns have been depicted as symbols of purity and innocence in Western cultures, whereas in others, they may have entirely different connotations. This diverse array of interpretations begs the question of how these cultural narratives shape our understanding and perception of mythical creatures on a global scale. Why do certain characteristics resonate universally while others remain culturally specific, and how does this affect the storytelling and symbolism associated with these creatures in contemporary times?