In the rich tapestry of English history, few figures loom as large as St George, the patron saint of England. His legendary exploits, particularly his valiant battle against the fearsome dragon, have become ingrained in the cultural fabric of the nation. Yet, amidst the myths and legends, the historical details of his life remain somewhat elusive.
Born in Cappadocia, a region located in present-day Turkey, in around 280 AD, St George’s commitment to his Christian faith would ultimately lead him to martyrdom in the year 303 AD. Saint George's Day is commemorated each year on 23 April, marking the date of his death.
The veneration of St George as the Patron Saint of England was formalized in 1415, following the pivotal English victory at the Battle of Agincourt under the ruling of King Henry V. Since that historic moment, St George became a potent symbol of national identity and resilience.
St George's Day has long been a focal point of English cultural heritage, and traditions such as wearing a red rose – a symbol associated with the saint – or proudly displaying the St George's Cross flag, serve as enduring tributes to his legacy.
Flying the Flag
Do the people of England feel pride in our national flag? In a study conducted by the think tank, British Future in 2014, it was discovered that 24% of English people think of the iconic red cross of St George’s flag as a racist symbol. Their report, This Sceptred Isle, further suggested that only 61% of us associate it with pride and patriotism. More recently, a research project conducted by the University of Cambridge, Black British Voices, revealed it is seen by many respondents as a symbol of ‘fear and racism’.
A Day to Celebrate?
The origins of St George's Day can be traced back to the 13th century when it was formally recognized in 1222. However, it was not until the aftermath of the Battle of Agincourt that it was officially declared a National Feast Day. While historical records provide insights into the establishment of the feast day, there remains some debate regarding its precise origins, with early manuscripts of the Synod of Oxford in 1222 offering limited clarity on the matter.
Throughout the centuries, various ceremonies and festivities have honoured the saint, including gatherings at St George's Crypt (a site of historical significance, until the closure of Oxford Prison in 1996). However, it is notable patron saints' days in other countries within the United Kingdom and Ireland are celebrated on a much larger scale, typically featuring a wide array of festivities including parades, concerts, traditional dances, and culinary events showcasing local cuisine. Can St Georges Day ever truly escape its nationalistic associations and achieve the same level of respect and celebration as these?
In 2011, a grassroots campaign emerged seeking to establish St George's Day as a public holiday in England. While the petition garnered significant support, it ultimately fell short of the required threshold for parliamentary debate. Nonetheless, the campaign underscored the enduring relevance of St George and his significance to the English people.
St George and The Dragon
As England's patron saint, St George remains a potent symbol of courage and faith.
Perhaps the most famous of all his exploits, the enduring legend of George and the dragon has captivated imaginations for centuries. Legend has it that the soldier, George, valiantly fought a dragon demanding human sacrifice from local villagers. Though the specific location of the mythical encounter is subject to interpretation, Dragon Hill near Uffington, Oxfordshire, is often cited as being associated with the tale. The enduring symbolism of this legend is reflected in various cultural expressions, including Morris Men dancing on Dragon Hill on St George's Day just last year.
Happy St George’s Day, to all of our readers. Whether you celebrate the occasion or not, we hope you enjoy embracing your favourite parts of English culture, from the mighty Cornish pasty to the fish and chip supper.
