Brontosaurus teeth

The brontosaurus teeth symbolize the awe and scientific importance of the fossil bones that Cope and Johnson discover. When Cope and Johnson discover the fossilized teeth, they marvel at the size of the creature to which they must have belonged, and they are struck by the fact that they are the first humans in history to discover such bones. The brontosaurus teeth are the titular dragon teeth, as Cope dubs them.

Photography

Photography represents discipline and the value of developing a skill or craft. Johnson only learns photography so that he can join Marsh's expedition and win the wager against Marlin, but Johnson discovers that the patience and work required to learn the craft are actually quite satisfying and rewarding. Moreover, the skill of photography later earns him money and status during his time trapped in Deadwood.

Paleontology

Paleontology symbolizes the progress of science in...