In my mind, the settling into the school year is marked by the celebration of Michaelmas.
Deemed the festival of strength, bravery and courage, the grades children partake in a short play depicting St. George's slaying of the venomous beast. After “taming” the dragon with hand crafted wooden swords, the children share bread baked in form of the beast himself - traditional dragon bread. Feats calling for the said characteristics are also played including a competitive game of tug of war. In summation, Michaelmas beckons us to find the spirit to come alive through the dying year.
However, if you wish to dig a little deeper and find the parallel between "Michaelmas" and "St. George slaying a dragon" please check out the following link from A Journey Through Waldorf Homeschooling.
