The New Murrey and Blue blog

Saint George was one of the saints depicted on the Middleham Jewel, which probably belonged to either his wife, Anne Neville, his sister-in-law, Isabel Neville, or his mother-in-law, Anne Beauchamp (or possibly all three at different times).

Saint George became the patron saint of England during the 13th century. Before that, Saint Edmund the Martyr was considered the patron saint of England.

However, during the Crusades, the legend of Saint George spread throughout Europe, and he became a popular figure in English folklore.

In 1348, King Edward III of England officially declared Saint George the patron saint of England, and the saint’s feast day, April 23rd, became a national holiday. Since then, Saint George has remained an important figure in English culture and identity, symbolizing bravery, chivalry, and English heritage.

The Historical Figure

• The exact details of Saint George’s life are unknown, but historians believe he was a Roman soldier who lived during the 3rd or 4th century AD. The Roman Empire was vast, and Christianity was quite a new religion.

The Martyrdom

• According to legend, Saint George was arrested and tortured for refusing to renounce his Christian faith. Despite being subjected to various forms of torture, including being stretched on a rack and burned with torches, Saint George remained steadfast in his beliefs.

The Dragon Legend

• In hagiography, as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers and one of the most prominent military saints, he is immortalized in the legend of Saint George and the Dragon. The story recounts his battle with a dragon that was terrorizing the city of Silene in Libya and the people were forced to sacrifice a maiden to the beast each day. Saint George arrived on the scene, and with his faith and bravery, he killed the dragon with a single blow, saving the city.

Symbolism and Iconography

• The legend of Saint George and the dragon has been depicted in countless works of art throughout history. The image of Saint George on horseback, spearing the dragon, has become an iconic symbol of bravery, faith, and the triumph of good over evil.

Veneration and Legacy

• Saint George is venerated in many countries, including England, where he is the patron saint.
• His feast day, April 23rd, is celebrated with parades, festivals, and other events.
• Historically, the countries of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Georgia, Ukraine, Malta, Ethiopia, the regions of Catalonia and Aragon, and the cities of Moscow and Beirut have claimed George as their patron saint, as have several other regions, cities, universities, professions, and organizations.

The Church of Saint George in Lod (Lydda), Israel, has a sarcophagus traditionally believed to contain St. George’s remains.

Saint George’s legacy extends beyond his military bravery and martyrdom; he is also revered for his unwavering commitment to his faith.