by George

English

Etymology

"By (God and Saint) George" is an old English oath invoked immediately before charging into battle as late as World War I.

Versions of this oath can be found in several of William Shakespeare's plays: including:

  • Henry VI, Part 1 (written circa 1591 and set in 1431):
    • "God and Saint George, Talbot and England's right, Prosper our colours in this dangerous fight!"[1]
    • "Saint George and victory! Fight, soldiers, fight!"[2]
  • Henry VI, Part 3 (written circa 1591 and set 1460 to 1471):
    • "Then strike up drums; God and Saint George for us!";[3]
    • "For Warwick and his friends, God and Saint George!"[4]
    • "Lords, to the field; Saint George and victory!"[5]
  • Richard III: "God and Saint George! Richmond and victory!"[6]
  • Henry V: "Follow your spirit, and upon this charge Cry 'God for Harry, England, and Saint George!'"[7]

Adverb

by George (not comparable)

  1. (minced oath) By God!: expressing wonderment, zeal.

Synonyms

See also

References

  1. ^ Henry VI, Part 1; act IV, scene II
  2. ^ Henry VI, Part 1; Act IV, scene VI
  3. ^ Henry VI, Part 3; Act II, scene I
  4. ^ Henry VI, Part 3; Act IV, scene II
  5. ^ Henry VI, Part 3; Act V, scene I
  6. ^ Richard III; Act V, scene III
  7. ^ Henry V; Act III, scene I
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