the-englishman
by Chesterton · Cluster: Heroism · Hero · Last Stand
Abstract
A comic patriotic song invoking St George, English ale, beef and chivalry; nationalism, food and drink, the dragon-slaying hero.
Testo / Text
Connections
Settings: Medieval England (2)
Topoi: Combat Strife
Characters: St George
Archetypes: Hero, Damsel, Monster Motifs: Wine and Drink, Food and Feasting, Swords and Weapons, Flags and Banners Themes & Concepts: Nationalism and Patriotism, Heroism, Masculinity and the Male Code Forms & Genres: Comic Verse Song Historical References: Christianity
Testo integrale / Full text
The Englishman
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 he was for England,
And right gallantly set free
The lady left for dragon’s meat
And tied up to a tree;
But since he stood for England
And knew what England means,
Unless you give him bacon
You mustn’t give him beans.
St George he is for England,
And shall wear the shield he wore
When we go out in armour
With battle-cross before.
But though he is jolly company
And very pleased to dine,
It isn’t safe to give him nuts
Unless you give him wine.
— G.K.Chesterton