Pegasus vs. Griffin — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 23, 2024
Pegasus is a mythical winged horse, known for its role in Greek mythology, whereas the Griffin combines features of an eagle and a lion, prominent in various mythologies.
Difference Between Pegasus and Griffin
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Pegasus, originating in Greek mythology, is often depicted as a pure white horse with wings, symbolizing wisdom and fame. On the other hand, the Griffin, found in multiple cultures' mythologies, has the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle, representing strength and protection.
Pegasus is associated with the hero Bellerophon, with stories highlighting its role in defeating monsters like the Chimera. Whereas the Griffin is seen as a guardian of treasures and invaluable possessions, often depicted in heraldry.
Pegasus was believed to have created the Hippocrene Spring, a source of inspiration for poets and artists, by striking its hoof to the ground. The Griffin, however, lacks such specific tales but is often linked to divine protection and power.
In art, Pegasus frequently appears in ancient Greek pottery and Renaissance paintings, emphasizing its role in Greek folklore. The Griffin, however, spans a broader spectrum, appearing in medieval tapestries and architecture as a symbol of divine power and authority.
Culturally, Pegasus is a symbol of the transcendent power of poetry and the arts, often seen as benevolent. The Griffin, in contrast, is a fierce protector, viewed as majestic and formidable in its stance against threats.
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Comparison Chart
Origin
Greek mythology
Various mythologies (Greek, Egyptian)
Symbolism
Wisdom, fame, poetry
Strength, protection, divine authority
Physical Features
Winged horse
Eagle's head and wings, lion's body
Associated Tales
Bellerophon and the fight against Chimera
Guardian of treasures and sacred places
Cultural Role
Inspiration for poetry and arts
Emblem of power and protection
Compare with Definitions
Pegasus
Symbol of poetic inspiration and artistic endeavor.
She referred to her sudden burst of creativity as her Pegasus moment.
Griffin
Mythological creature with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle.
The medieval tapestry showed a Griffin guarding the castle gates.
Pegasus
Represents purity and spiritual beauty.
The purity of Pegasus was illustrated in the play through ethereal imagery.
Griffin
Emblem of divine power and protection.
The ancient seal featured a Griffin symbolizing the king's divine right to rule.
Pegasus
Connected to the creation of the Hippocrene Spring.
Artists often visited the reputed site of Pegasus' spring seeking inspiration.
Griffin
Appears in various cultural heraldries.
The Griffin is a prominent figure in the coat of arms of the city.
Pegasus
Associated with heroism and adventure.
The epic tales often featured Pegasus in scenes of heroic bravery.
Griffin
Associated with strength and courage.
Warriors in the myth were described as valiant as Griffins.
Pegasus
Mythical winged horse from Greek mythology.
The ancient sculpture depicted Pegasus soaring towards the heavens.
Griffin
Guardian of treasures and sacred sites.
Legends often spoke of Griffins watching over golden hoards.
Pegasus
A constellation in the Northern Hemisphere near Aquarius and Andromeda.
Griffin
A fabulous beast with the head and wings of an eagle and the body of a lion.
Pegasus
Pegasus (Greek: Πήγασος, Pḗgasos; Latin: Pegasus, Pegasos) is a mythical winged divine horse, and one of the most recognized creatures in Greek mythology. Usually depicted as pure white, Pegasus is the offspring of the Olympian god Poseidon.
Griffin
The griffin, griffon, or gryphon (Ancient Greek: γρύψ, grū́ps; Classical Latin: grȳps or grȳpus; Late and Medieval Latin: gryphes, grypho etc.; Old French: griffon) is a legendary creature with the body, tail, and back legs of a lion; the head and wings of an eagle; and sometimes an eagle's talons as its front feet. Because the lion was traditionally considered the king of the beasts, and the eagle the king of the birds, by the Middle Ages, the griffin was thought to be an especially powerful and majestic creature.
Pegasus
Greek Mythology A winged horse that with a stroke of his hoof caused the fountain Hippocrene to spring forth from Mount Helicon.
Griffin
A mythical beast having the body of a lion and the wings and head of an eagle.
Pegasus
A winged horse (imaginary or mythical, sometimes figurative).
Griffin
A large vulture (Gyps fulvus) found in the mountainous parts of Southern Europe, North Africa, and Asia Minor, supposed to be the "eagle" of the Bible.
Pegasus
A winged horse fabled to have sprung from the body of Medusa when she was slain. He is noted for causing, with a blow of his hoof, Hippocrene, the inspiring fountain of the Muses, to spring from Mount Helicon. On this account he is, in modern times, associated with the Muses, and with ideas of poetic inspiration.
Each spurs his jaded Pegasus apace.
Griffin
An English variety of apple.
Pegasus
A northen constellation near the vernal equinoctial point. Its three brightest stars, with the brightest star of Andromeda, form the square of Pegasus.
Griffin
A person who has just arrived from Europe.
Pegasus
A genus of small fishes, having large pectoral fins, and the body covered with hard, bony plates. Several species are known from the East Indies and China.
Griffin
A cadet newly arrived in British India: half English, half Indian.
Pegasus
(Greek mythology) immortal winged horse that sprang from the blood of the slain Medusa; was tamed by Bellerophon with the help of a bridle given him by Athena; as the flying horse of the Muses it is a symbol of high-flying imagination
Griffin
A watchful guardian, especially a duenna in charge of a young woman.
Pegasus
A constellation in the northern hemisphere near Andromeda and Pisces
Griffin
An Anglo-Indian name for a person just arrived from Europe.
Griffin
A fabulous monster, half lion and half eagle. It is often represented in Grecian and Roman works of art.
Griffin
A representation of this creature as an heraldic charge.
Griffin
A species of large vulture (Gyps fulvus) found in the mountainous parts of Southern Europe, North Africa, and Asia Minor; - called also gripe, and grype. It is supposed to be the "eagle" of the Bible. The bearded griffin is the lammergeir.
Griffin
An English early apple.
Griffin
Winged monster with an eagle-like head and body of a lion
Common Curiosities
Can Pegasus be found in mythologies outside of Greece?
While primarily Greek, Pegasus appears in various adaptations in Western cultures.
Was Pegasus involved with any famous mythical heroes?
Yes, Pegasus was famously ridden by the hero Bellerophon.
What role does the Griffin play in architecture?
Griffins often feature as decorative elements symbolizing protection in architectural designs.
What is the primary mythological origin of Pegasus?
Pegasus is from Greek mythology.
What does the Griffin symbolize in mythology?
The Griffin symbolizes strength, protection, and divine authority.
How are Griffins portrayed in terms of temperament?
Griffins are typically portrayed as fierce and formidable protectors.
What makes Pegasus distinctive in mythological stories?
Pegasus is unique for its association with poetic inspiration and artistic creativity.
What are common depictions of the Griffin in art?
Griffins are commonly depicted guarding treasures or in heraldic emblems.
Is there a specific story that features Pegasus creating something?
Yes, Pegasus is famed for creating the Hippocrene Spring by striking the ground with its hoof.
What does the Griffin's mixed features signify?
The combination of eagle and lion traits in the Griffin signifies a union of power and strength.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
