April 23 – The feast day of Saint George, dragon-slayer and patron saint of England (and elsewhere). He’s famously invoked in Shakespeare’s “Henry V,” during the siege of Harfleur. It’s only appropriate that England’s most-celebrated playwright was born on this date in 1564. Or was he? We’re not sure, but we know he was baptized on April 26, and he died on April 23, 52 years later, so we’re inclined to make it fit! Methinks the Bard would appreciate the touch of poetic license.
Happy birthday, Shakespeare, and cry Harry, England and Saint Geooooooooorge!
Olivier, “Once more unto the breach, dear friends!”
Branagh, same
Bonus! Brian Blessed, who played Exeter in the Branagh version, at 84
Edward Elgar, “The Banner of Saint George,” conducted by the late Sir Andrew Davis
Some of the most impressive artistic renderings of St. George aren’t even English. And I kind of feel sorry for the dragon, to be honest.
Branagh as “Henry V” (left) and “Saint George Killing the Dragon” by Bernat Martorell