Sympathy for the dragon? Englishness and St George's Day

A study by Dr Andrew Mycock and Professor Jim McAuley highlighted that opinion concerning St George’s Day remains divided, though a majority of respondents to a survey of staff and students at the University of Huddersfield indicated they would like to, or were going to, celebrate it in April 2009. The research suggests that not only is there a growing recognition of St George’s Day and a preparedness to celebrate it but that a more diverse and sophisticated conception of Englishness is emerging as debates about identity and citizenship develop in the UK.

The English language and literature, food and drink, landscape, music and history were cited to express a distinct sense of Englishness, though binge-drinking, racism and bad weather were also identified. However, many respondents felt it difficult or were unable to distinguish between English and British national identity, with many of the cultural and political values associated with Englishness overlapping with conceptions of Britishness articulated by the government and others. This suggests that for many there was pride in being English and British, but with the lack of a separate British national day St George’s Day is viewed as an opportunity to celebrate both identities.

Some still feel the freedom to celebrate Englishness was restricted by others, whilst a significant minority continued to express reservations about St George’s Day, particularly the possibility that it could become a vehicle for exclusionary and xenophobic nationalism. A key theme, even for some who did not celebrate St George’s Day, was the recognition that it was of equal importance to other national, religious or cultural festivals in the UK. This was reflected in the considerable support for a bank holiday and for flying the Cross of St George on all public buildings. Of less concern was the organisation of public events as many felt it appropriate to celebrate privately. Although a growing number would be holding family events or going to the pub, many were still unsure as to what or how they should celebrate or why they should do so. More details of the survey can be found on the University website.