For someone who is British through and through, I was surprised to find out how little I really know about the Patron Saint of England, Saint George. I must admit that I've never really remembered the date, I don't know how we celebrate the occasion, and I most certainly didn't realise that a large number of other countries also worship the same Saint George: Aragon, Catalonia, Georgia, Greece, Lithuania, Portugal, Russia and Palestine, the list goes on and on.
It is said that George was born in Turkey, in the third century, to devout Christian parents. In his adult life, he became a brave Roman solider, serving under a strict, Pagan leader. Tired and continuously hurt by the Roman's torture of Christians, George stood up to his leader, an audacious act that ultimately lead to his untimely beheading. This spirited and gallant man died in youth for his beliefs.
Now I knew little of this Christian versus Pagan story. Instead, I have been more accustomed to the mystical tale of Saint George; of his supposed slaying of a mighty, mean dragon on the islands of Libya. However, looking at studies on the topic, it seems this is a more fabricated tale of his time on the Roman battlefields, with the dragon really being symbolic of the evil, Pagan leader who beheaded him.
Regardless of which story you prefer to the follow, the imagery in both remains the same. Whether you look at paintings of a Roman Christian solider or a young and gallant Knight slaying a dragon, in pretty much all of them, George is carrying a special shield, adorned with the red cross of England.
These days, St. George's Day doesn't seem as popular in the UK as it should be. As a nation, we really should celebrate our Patron Saint with as much enthusiasm as the Irish and the Welsh. After-all, for such a small country, we certainly have made our mark on the world politically, socially and artistically.
If you're looking for somewhere extra special and nostalgic to celebrate this St. George's Day, you should head on down to Home House of Portman Square in London. Celebrate England's Patron Saint with a classic selection of ingredients including smoked salmon, asparagus, rib of beef, bread and butter pudding and sherry trifle (vegetarian option available), as well delicious, crisp, fruity wine.
It is said that George was born in Turkey, in the third century, to devout Christian parents. In his adult life, he became a brave Roman solider, serving under a strict, Pagan leader. Tired and continuously hurt by the Roman's torture of Christians, George stood up to his leader, an audacious act that ultimately lead to his untimely beheading. This spirited and gallant man died in youth for his beliefs.
Now I knew little of this Christian versus Pagan story. Instead, I have been more accustomed to the mystical tale of Saint George; of his supposed slaying of a mighty, mean dragon on the islands of Libya. However, looking at studies on the topic, it seems this is a more fabricated tale of his time on the Roman battlefields, with the dragon really being symbolic of the evil, Pagan leader who beheaded him.
Regardless of which story you prefer to the follow, the imagery in both remains the same. Whether you look at paintings of a Roman Christian solider or a young and gallant Knight slaying a dragon, in pretty much all of them, George is carrying a special shield, adorned with the red cross of England.
These days, St. George's Day doesn't seem as popular in the UK as it should be. As a nation, we really should celebrate our Patron Saint with as much enthusiasm as the Irish and the Welsh. After-all, for such a small country, we certainly have made our mark on the world politically, socially and artistically.
If you're looking for somewhere extra special and nostalgic to celebrate this St. George's Day, you should head on down to Home House of Portman Square in London. Celebrate England's Patron Saint with a classic selection of ingredients including smoked salmon, asparagus, rib of beef, bread and butter pudding and sherry trifle (vegetarian option available), as well delicious, crisp, fruity wine.
About the Author:
Home House hosts a private members club for people from all walks of life, which is part of its charm. Quite unlike many other private members clubs in Soho, Home House hosts a place to enjoy leisure time or the perfect spot for a working day. Home House hosts London's best Saint George's Day Party in London.
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