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Da sacralização à demonização: a evolução simbológica da figura da serpente nas culturas lusófona e chinesa

Yuxiong Zhang

Revista Internacional em Língua Portuguesa | Sep 29, 2026

Abstract

Abstract

In modern languages, the figure of the serpent is often associated with derogatory connotations. However, both the ancient Chinese and Celtiberians practiced ophio-worship. This study investigates the evolution of serpent symbolism throughout the history of Portugal and China and seeks to identify possible connections between the cultures. Based on the analysis of serpent figures, we identify their association with symbols of regeneration and healing in primitive times. With the advancement of human knowledge, the reptile lost its divine character and became associated, in religious doctrines, with the fearsome consequences of recklessness. In addition, the serpent is also linked to the female figure in cultures, reflecting the social role of women in different historical periods. The evolution of its symbolism in Chinese and Portuguese-speaking cultures reveals not only the advancement of human knowledge, but also the transformations of society throughout history.

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Yuxiong Zhang

first | Instituto Politécnico de Leiria | ORCID 0000-0003-0305-0110

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@article{Zhang2026sacraliza,
  title = {Da sacralização à demonização: a evolução simbológica da figura da serpente nas culturas lusófona e chinesa},
  author = {Yuxiong Zhang},
  journal = {Revista Internacional em Língua Portuguesa},
  year = {2026},
  doi = {10.31492/2184-2043.rilp2026.50/pp.143-156},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.31492/2184-2043.rilp2026.50/pp.143-156}
}

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