Saint George Slaying the Dragon Sir Edward Burne-Jones (1833-1898)

The composition centers on a dynamic confrontation between a knight and a monstrous creature. Here we observe the knight poised mid-action, his body angled sharply as he thrusts a lance or sword downwards toward the dragon sprawled beneath him. The figure of the knight is rendered with considerable detail; the armor appears weighty and meticulously crafted, reflecting light in a way that suggests metallic substance. A crimson cloak billows behind him, adding to the sense of movement and emphasizing his heroic stature. His face, turned slightly away from the viewer, conveys an expression of intense focus and determination rather than overt triumph.
The dragon occupies the lower portion of the canvas. It is depicted as a dark, formidable beast, its scales rendered with a rough texture that evokes both power and menace. The creature’s posture suggests it has been brought low but not entirely defeated; theres an impression of coiled strength remaining within its form. Its head is turned towards the knight, hinting at a final, desperate gaze.
The background is sparsely detailed, consisting primarily of a muted landscape with indistinct hills and a pale sky. This limited backdrop serves to isolate the central action and direct the viewer’s attention entirely onto the struggle between the two figures. The color palette is dominated by dark tones – browns, blacks, and grays – which contribute to a somber and dramatic atmosphere. The splashes of red in the cloak and the subtle highlights on the armor provide visual contrast and draw the eye to key elements within the scene.
Beyond the literal depiction of a heroic battle, the painting seems to explore themes of good versus evil, courage against overwhelming odds, and perhaps even sacrifice. The knight’s posture suggests not only physical strength but also moral conviction; he is engaged in a righteous act, facing down a symbol of chaos or corruption. The subdued emotional expression on his face implies that this victory comes at a cost, hinting at the burden of responsibility inherent in such acts of heroism. The dragons presence can be interpreted as representing not only physical danger but also internal struggles and temptations that must be overcome.