St George: Hero, Martyr and Myth

Samantha Riches traces St George’s transformation from an obscure Christian martyr into a figure associated with chivalry, warfare and England. Drawing on historical records, literary sources and more than 100 images, she follows the development of his cult and the changing meanings attached to his story.

The book examines the saint’s martyrdom, his role as a knightly ideal and military patron, and the symbolism of his battle with the dragon. It also considers how medieval artists represented the legend, including images of female dragons, before turning to the ways St George’s reputation and imagery continued to develop after the medieval period.