Story Summary
Discover the legend of Saint George and the Dragon, a timeless story of a brave knight who saves a kingdom from a monstrous beast through faith and valor.
In the city of Silene, a fierce dragon lived in a nearby lake, poisoning the countryside with its breath. To appease the beast, the citizens initially offered sheep, but when the livestock ran low, they were forced to sacrifice their own children, chosen by lottery. One day, the lot fell upon the King’s daughter. Clad in wedding robes, the princess walked toward the lake to meet her fate. As she wept, a Roman soldier named George arrived on horseback. Seeing the maiden in distress, George stood his ground despite her pleas for him to flee. When the dragon emerged, George made the sign of the cross and charged. He transfixed the beast with his lance and commanded the princess to bind the dragon’s neck with her girdle. The once-terrible creature followed her like a lapdog back to the city gates. George told the trembling citizens that if they believed in Christ and were baptized, he would slay the beast. Fifteen thousand men, including the King, were converted that day. George then drew his sword and killed the dragon, freeing the land from its shadow of fear.
The Moral
True courage is found when unwavering faith is used to stand against the most terrifying evils.
“Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and I will slay this beast before your eyes.”
Fun Fact
Saint George is the patron saint of many nations beyond England, including Georgia, Ethiopia, Lithuania, Greece, and Palestine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Saint George and the Dragon?
The story teaches that faith and righteousness can overcome even the most overwhelming personifications of evil. It emphasizes that bravery is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it through divine strength.
Was Saint George a real person?
Yes, Saint George was a historic Roman soldier of Greek origin and a member of the Praetorian Guard for Emperor Diocletian. He was martyred in 303 AD for refusing to recant his Christian faith.
What does the dragon represent in the legend?
In Christian iconography and hagiography, the dragon typically represents the Devil, paganism, or the forces of chaos and sin that the saint must overcome through Christ.
Why is Saint George the patron saint of England?
His popularity grew during the Crusades as a model of chivalry. King Edward III made him the patron saint of the Order of the Garter in the 14th century, cementing his status as England's protector.
Where did the story of the dragon take place?
The most famous version of the legend, popularized in the 'Golden Legend,' places the events in the city of Silene in Libya.
How did Saint George tame the dragon?
In the legend, George did not immediately kill the dragon but wounded it and had the princess use her girdle as a leash, symbolizing the triumph of purity and faith over raw, monstrous power.
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