The flag of St. George
St George's Day
Apr 23
Other Scottish Country Dances for this Day
Today's Musings, History & Folklore
"St George he was for England, And before he killed the dragon
He drank a pint of English ale out of an English flagon."
~ G.K. Chesteron (1874-1936)
If you can't slay them, dance with them! This energetic 48 bar reel pays due homage to St. George by almost continuing maintaining the cross figure! St. George's Day, celebrated on April 23rd, is a significant cultural and religious holiday in many countries that honor Saint George, the patron saint of England, among other nations. Traditionally, this day is marked with various patriotic and religious observances. In England, the day is commemorated with the flying of the St. George's Cross flag, and in some areas, church services and parades are held. People may wear a red rose on their lapel—echoing the emblem of England—while Morris dancing, a traditional English form of folk dance, is performed in village squares. Historical reenactments, particularly of St. George slaying the dragon, are also popular, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. In recent years, there has been a push to restore the prominence of St. George's Day, encouraging celebrations that embrace English heritage and culture broadly, echoing the scale of St. Patrick's Day in Ireland. Happy St George's Day! 🏴 🇬🇧 🐉 🌹
St George's Cross
The legend of St. George and the Dragon is a timeless allegory of good triumphing over evil, woven into the fabric of various cultures' folklore, most notably in England. According to the most popular version of the tale, St. George, a Christian knight, arrives in a town plagued by a fearsome dragon. The beast demands daily sacrifices, having devoured all the livestock, and now the townspeople must sacrifice their children, chosen by lottery. On the day of St. George’s arrival, the princess has been selected as the next offering. As she is sent to the lake, where the dragon resides, St. George fortuitously rides past. Enraged by the injustice, he faces the dragon, protects himself with the sign of the Cross, and slays the beast with a single, mighty blow with his lance, often called Ascalon. His brave deed frees the town from terror, and witnessing this miracle, the townspeople abandon their pagan beliefs and convert to Christianity. St. George's defeat of the dragon thus stands not only as a symbol of bravery and virtue but also marks a legendary moment of redemption and enlightenment. The story encapsulates themes of courage, faith, and the eternal battle between good and evil, resonating deeply in literature and art, celebrating the saint's valor and protective strength.
For more details of the legend of St. Geoge and a gallery of associated sculpture and art, click the medieval manuscript!
Click the dance cribs or description below to link to a printable version of the dance!
