The Englishman by G.K. Chesterton
The Englishman is a collection of essays by G.K. Chesterton that explore various aspects of English culture and society. The book includes discussions on topics such as literature, politics, religion, and philosophy.
By G.K. Chesterton · First published 1904 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Folklore · 216 words
First lines
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 the 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.
What this Textopian page supports
The Englishman is listed on Textopian as a poem by G.K. Chesterton, dated 1904 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: G.K. Chesterton
- Date: 1904 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Humor, Folklore, Satire
- Length: 216 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Englishman by G.K. Chesterton
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Englishman?
- How does this poem by G.K. Chesterton fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- A Ballade Of An Anti Puritan by G. K. Chesterton
- The Man On Top by G. K. Chesterton
- The Fool by G. K. Chesterton
- The Strangeness Of Luxury by G. K. Chesterton
- Cheese by G. K. Chesterton
- The Orthodox Barber by G. K. Chesterton
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Humor — The playful tone and humorous depiction of St. George's preferences for food and drink suggest a comedic element.
- Folklore — The subject matter revolves around the legendary figure of St. George, a common character in English folklore.
- Satire — The exaggerated portrayal of English customs and St. George's behavior may imply a satirical commentary on national identity.
Tags
identity · nationalism · culture · philosophy · society · tradition · humor · satire · politics · history · character · narrative