Imagine a world where valor, honor, and timeless virtues still mean something. Enter Saint George and the Dragon, a book crafted for both the young and the old, written by none other than the illustrious Margaret Hodges and adorned with illustrations by Trina Schart Hyman. Published by the celebrated Little, Brown Books for Young Readers in 1984, this masterwork follows the gripping tale of Saint George, a stalwart knight, on his mission to rescue a princess from the claws of a frightening dragon. This isn’t just a fairytale, it's a stunning allegory rooted in Christianity and Western values. Set against the backdrop of medieval England, this story beckons the reader to reclaim the virtues we've foolishly shelved under the guise of progress.
Now, why should you give this book more than a mere glance? Here are ten reasons that make Saint George and the Dragon not just a must-read, but an essential social commentary wrapped in an engaging storyline:
A Hero for the Ages - George isn't your run-of-the-mill protagonist. He's courageous, loyal, and on a mission—a refreshing sight compared to today's anti-heroes who wallow in moral ambiguity. George embodies qualities conservatives hold dear: bravery, duty, and faith.
Classic Good vs. Evil - This narrative strips the deceit of relativism that clouds the modern world. Here, good is unequivocally good, and evil is a monstrous dragon threatening all that we cherish. Spoiler: the hero wins. And doesn't that just warm your heart?
Stunning Illustrations - The illustrations by Trina Schart Hyman breathe life into the text, turning it into an immersive visual experience. The artistry captures the essence of the medieval era, something that evokes nostalgia for a time less riddled with tech distractions.
Rooted in Tradition - This isn't just another story but draws heavy inspiration from Edmund Spenser's The Faerie Queene. It's a nod to works that shaped Western literary tradition. Not some vague narrative with unclear intentions.
Faith as a Guiding Star - Faith isn't just an accessory in this tale; it's the guiding star. Today's 'woke' narratives often ignore or deride faith—a fatal flaw rectified by this book's strong spiritual undertones.
Values Worth Fighting For - George's journey is as much about vanquishing external demons as it is about conquering internal ones. In a world obsessed with external validation, this book focuses on virtues and moral victories.
A Princess with Substance - The princess in distress isn't some helpless figure with no voice, a refreshing contrast to the caricatures painted by folks who underestimate traditional tales. She's integral to the story's unfolding.
A Relic of Resilience - The tale thrives on resilience and perseverance, painting a much-needed picture in these times of instant gratification. George wins the day not through shortcuts, but through grit and determination.
Historical and Cultural Depth - Without shying away from its heritage, the book incorporates elements from traditional Western history and folklore. For those who argue that cultural foundations matter, this backs it up in style.
An Escape from Cynicism - In a world full of cynics smugly pointing out what's wrong, this book is an oasis. It's a celebration of what's right. And sometimes, that's all you need—a reminder that the power of good can, indeed, change the world.
Margaret Hodges and Trina Schart Hyman have gifted the world a work that remains relevant. A book that serves not just as a pleasant escape but as an influential piece urging us to embrace core values that withstand the test of time. If you haven't yet explored this captivating world, maybe it's time you do. After all, there's a reason tales like these endure—they champion virtues our forefathers knew were worth preserving.