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.
Others believe in the more mystical tale of Saint George, of his supposed slaying of a mighty, mean dragon on the islands of Libya. Legend has it that he was saving a beautiful princess from the lair of the dragon but, looking at it in more depth, perhaps this is a glorified tale of what really happened on the fields of Rome, Christians against Pagans.
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.
Others believe in the more mystical tale of Saint George, of his supposed slaying of a mighty, mean dragon on the islands of Libya. Legend has it that he was saving a beautiful princess from the lair of the dragon but, looking at it in more depth, perhaps this is a glorified tale of what really happened on the fields of Rome, Christians against Pagans.
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 is a private members club for people from all walks of life, which is part of its uniqueness. Quite unlike many other private members clubs in Soho, Home House is a place to enjoy leisure time or the perfect spot for a working day. Home House is London's best St. George's Day Events in London.
