St George and the Dragons: The Making of English Identity

St George and the Dragons is a comprehensive survey of the tradition and symbolism of St George in English culture, The book reviews the facts about St George and his influence in England. The book summarizes what is known, according to the latest research, about: the historical St George; the growth and influence of legends about him in England, especially George and the Dragon; and the place of St George in English history, culture and institutions, particularly the banner of St George. There are some 150 illustrations. St George and the Dragons reflects on the significance of the figure of St George for today. Finally there are links to St George societies, research resources and information for visitors to England. St George and the Dragons explores whether and in what sense the figure of St George, the patron saint of England, can throw light upon, even perhaps crystallize, the question of what it means to be English today.

MICHAEL H. COLLINS MA (Oxon) MPhil MRGS is an author, teacher and lecturer. He read History at Merton College, Oxford, where he went on to take a research degree. His thesis on the career as an Anglican of Thomas Brett the Nonjuror (1667-1743) was researched among original documents in the famous Bodleian Library. For a number of years Michael Collins taught Western Civilization at Beijing International Studies University. He now works at King Saud University, Riyadh. He is a regular speaker and reviewer on historical and cultural themes. He has travelled widely and has published The American Panorama: A Comprehensive Guide to the Culture of the United States. He writes as a communicant member of the Church of England.