Saint George (Diagnosis)
“By George, I do feel better,” he muttered.[i]
The name George roots from the Roman soldier of Greek origin Saint George. Saint George was a Christian martyr who later became one of the most venerated saints in Christianity.
The oath “By George”, however, is used just before fighting a battle. William Shakespeare has a version of the oath in his play “Henry V”:
I see you stand like greyhounds in the slips,
Straining upon the start. The game's afoot;
Follow your spirit: and upon this charge,
Cry — God for Harry! England and Saint George!
King Henry, Act 3, Scene I [ii]
For further readings:
[i] Wharton, Edith; Robinson, Roxana (2007): The New York stories of Edith Wharton. New York, NY: New York Review Books (New York Review Books classics). p.381.
[ii] Fox, Levi (Hg.): The complete works of William Shakespeare. Great Britain: Murrays sales & service co. Cresta House. p.475.