With Easter fast approaching, it will soon be time to turn our attentions to the Patron Saint of England, Saint George. And, with times as tough as ever, we really should rally together this year and celebrate being English. Not so much English as Christian, for did you know that Saint George is also worshipped in other countries such as Aragon, Catalonia, Georgia, Greece, Lithuania, Portugal, Russia and Palestine, to name but a mere few.
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 follow, the imagery and symbolism remains the same. In both accounts, Saint George is described as valiant and brave, holding up a famous shield with the red cross painted on it. This is where the original flag for England came from, from this brave soul who stood up for his beliefs and the beliefs of Christianity, consequently meeting his peril on the 23rd April 303.
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 follow, the imagery and symbolism remains the same. In both accounts, Saint George is described as valiant and brave, holding up a famous shield with the red cross painted on it. This is where the original flag for England came from, from this brave soul who stood up for his beliefs and the beliefs of Christianity, consequently meeting his peril on the 23rd April 303.
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 member club in Mayfair, Home House hosts a place to enjoy leisure time or the perfect spot for a working day. Home House hosts London's best Feast of St George in London.
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