In both Chinese and Thai zodiacs, 2026 is the Year of the Horse. Symbolizing untamable energy, speed, and strength, this year is anticipated to be a period of rapid change and transition.
The Academic Resource Center invites you to explore five legendary horses and hybrids from world literature:
   Pegasus (Greek Mythology)
      Born from the blood of the fallen Medusa, this pure white winged stallion is a symbol of immense strength and speed. According to legend, everywhere Pegasus struck his hoof, a beautiful fountain of water sprang forth.
The Unicorn (European Mythology)
      A white horse featuring a single spiraling horn, the unicorn represents purity and rarity. In the modern business world, the term "Unicorn" describes startup companies valued at over $1 billion—a feat considered as rare as sighting the Unicorn itself.
Red Hare (Romance of the Three Kingdoms)
      Known as the "Red Rabbit Horse," this crimson stallion could reportedly run a thousand li in a single day. A central figure in Chinese epic literature, it was the prized warhorse of Lu Bu and later served other legendary figures like Guan Yu.
Si Mok (Thai Folklore)
      In the epic poem Khun Chang Khun Phaen, Si Mok is Khun Phaen’s powerful but unruly companion. To tame the beast, Khun Phaen used magic to enchant the grass it ate, transforming the wild horse into a loyal, lifelong ally.
Ma-Nin Mangkorn (Thai Literature)
      Created by the poet Sunthorn Phu in Phra Aphai Mani, this "Horse-Dragon" is a formidable hybrid with the body of a horse and the scales of a dragon. It was famously tamed by Sudsakorn, the young son of Phra Aphai Mani and a mermaid.

Written, translated, and illustrated by: Ratchanok T.