Poems about St. George and the Dragon: An Epic Battle of Good versus Evil

Poetry has long served as a powerful medium to recount legendary tales, and one such legend that has captured the imaginations of generations is the epic battle between St. George and the Dragon. This iconic story, rooted in medieval folklore, symbolizes the timeless struggle between good and evil. Countless poets have been inspired by this tale of bravery and heroism, weaving their words to evoke the thrilling encounters and the triumph of virtue. In this article, we explore some remarkable poems that celebrate St. George and the Dragon, keeping the spirit of this legendary tale alive.

Poem 1: "Saint George and the Dragon" by Edmund Spenser

One of the most renowned poets of the English Renaissance, Edmund Spenser, immortalized the story of St. George and the Dragon in his epic poem, "The Faerie Queene." In Book 1, Canto 1, Spenser introduces St. George as the Redcrosse Knight. The poem portrays St. George as the epitome of virtuous chivalry, fearlessly confronting the malevolent dragon, which represents evil itself. Here is an excerpt from this masterpiece:

Lo! where beyond he lyeth languishing,
Full of deep wounds, in bed of lilies laid,
And in his lap a lovely lady lying
Courting his sleep, but he her not regarding:
The whiles his gorgeous ryne is from him sliding,
And his fayre locks that were in threeds downe shedding,
Ambrosia from his cheekes, like roses red,
Fell drops of teares, and sacred honours sheding.

Poem 2: "St. George and the Dragon" by G. K. Chesterton

G. K. Chesterton, a prominent writer and poet of the early 20th century, offered his own take on the classic tale in his poem, "St. George and the Dragon." In this piece, Chesterton focuses on the symbolism of the battle, emphasizing the power of faith and courage to conquer darkness. Here is an excerpt that showcases Chesterton's unique perspective:

And the King said, "I have sixty knights,
Who wear their sword for me;
And two are gone on a dragon's quest,
And where, O King, is he?"
But St. George lifted up his head,
And this was his reply:
"Sir, I have thrown the sword away,
And whereto should I fly?"

Poem 3: "The Ballad of St. George and the Dragon" by Cecil Frances Alexander

Cecil Frances Alexander, best known for penning the beloved hymn "All Things Bright and Beautiful," also contributed to the realm of St. George and the Dragon poetry. Her poem, "The Ballad of St. George and the Dragon," presents a lyrical narrative that captures the essence of bravery, perseverance, and the triumph of good. Here is an excerpt that echoes Alexander's skillful storytelling:

St. George he was for England,
And before he killed the dragon
He drank a pint of English ale
Out of an English flagon.
For though he fast right readily
In hair-shirt or in mail,
It isn’t safe to give him cakes
Unless you give him ale.

St. George and the Dragon continue to inspire poets to this day, their legendary clash serving as an enduring symbol of courage, righteousness, and the indomitable human spirit. Through the power of poetry, these writers have breathed life into this age-old tale, reminding us of the eternal battle between good and evil that resonates within each of us. Whether it's the rich imagery of Edmund Spenser, the thought-provoking perspective of G. K. Chesterton, or the captivating storytelling of Cecil Frances Alexander, these poems immortalize the heroic exploits of St. George, forever etching his name in the annals of literature.