The Real St George and the Dragon
Summary
Dan Snow interviews mythologist Jasmine Elmer to explore the historical origins of Saint George and the dragon legend. They discuss how a 3rd-century Roman soldier evolved into a popular medieval saint through texts like the Golden Legend, and examine the dragon as a symbol of chaos. The episode also highlights lesser-known figures like Saint Margaret and analyzes the enduring appeal of dragon-slaying myths in modern culture.
Topics discussed
Sponsors and podcast promotion
The legend of St. George and the dragon
Historical facts vs. medieval myths
Introduction of guest Jasmine and her book
St. George's historical background as a Roman soldier
The evolution of St. George's cult and hagiographies
Why St. George became the 'everyman' saint
Mythological parallels: Perseus and the hero cycle
St. George as a patron saint and national symbol
Dragons in medieval maps and 'Here be Dragons'
Sponsor breaks and podcast promotions
The origins of the dragon image and fossil evidence
Christianity's adaptation of the dragon symbol
Saint Margaret and the female dragon-slayer archetype
Modern relevance and the fantasy genre
Book promotion and closing remarks
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