Such is the task of the alchemical philosopher. The tale of the unification of opposites is seen not only in alchemy, but throughout all philosophical and religious systems in all world cultures. Many ancient, pagan symbols are borrowed to show the process of illumination, and the trials and tasks of many mythological archetypes represent the same. For example, the Archangel Michael victoriously slays the dragon, Jason the Argonaut through hardship and trial collects the golden fleece, and Heracles is triumphantly announced a hero-king after methodically completing a series of esoteric tasks that prove his worthiness and bring his enlightenment. Egyptian tales are abound with gods and goddesses, priests and priestesses, who achieve their rise to consciousness through varied ordeals.
Chinese myth holds high the tale of the dragon and the egg, symbolic of divine wisdom.
This same symbolism is taken to a national scale in the slaying of the dragons of Scotland by St. George, and of Ireland by St. Patrick. The Archangel Michael is not only the protectorate of the Hebrews, but remains a Christian iconic hero, who not only slays the ultimate dragon of Revelation, but the more individualized dragons that torment his people. Later, Christ appears as the archetype of consciousness and Mercurius as the archetype of unconsciousness. Thereby, the dragon is related closely to the creative godhead in symbolism, and also represents the union of opposites. It is also said of Mercurius that, he will make you a witness of the mysteries of God and secrets of nature, and that he is the messenger of the gods.