Why the snake holds a place in the Chinese zodiac?

Snakes have often been cast as villains, globally. Surprisingly, this "bad" creature is a symbol of medicine, adorning many medical school emblems, and is featured in the iconography of mythical figures. What is the allure of the snake that captured the imagination of the ancient world, even becoming one of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals? The Year of the Snake is here, and let's explore the profound mysteries imbued in this small creature!?