In many tales, a phoenix is mostly known as a bird with bright red and gold plumage, that, at the end of it’s life, builds a nest and sets itself on fire. Later, from the ashes, a new, baby phoenix arises. The life span of the new phoenix is described as being as long as the old one, and as the stories go, a phoenix is immortal.
Origin: The most common origin of the phoenix is in early Christian art and literature, in which the phoenix is referenced to Christ himself, “representing his resurrection, immortality, and life-after death.”[1] Also, the phoenix is said to be derived from Egyptian myths, although the bird in those stories are seen as more of stork or heron. The word for the Egyptian bird means crimson, so it is likely that the phoenix was that bird indeed.
Appearance: In most cases, the phoenix is described as being a small bird with bright red and gold plumage. As the phoenix gets older, it turns a darker red, and when it is reborn, it tends to be the sand grew as the ashes, until it fully emerges.
Influences of the Modern Day: One example of a modern day phoenix is in the Harry Potter books by J.K. Rowling ©. In the Harry Potter series, there is a Phoenix named Fawkes. Phoenixes in this world have extraordinary powers such being able to heal deadly injuries with a single tear, being immortal due to the characteristic power of being able to die and be reborn for its own ashes, and having the ability to carry extremely heavy objects. And lastly, the song of a Phoenix in the Harry Potter world has the power to strike fear into the hearts of the evil, and to bring courage to the brave.
[1] Wikipedia.org: Phoenix
