The exclamation “My stars and garters!” is a quaint and rather theatrical phrase, often used to express surprise, shock, or excitement. But where does this curious expression originate? Answering the question, “Where Does The Phrase My Stars And Garters Come From,” takes us on a journey through British history, chivalry, and the symbolic adornments of a prestigious order.
The Order of the Garter: A Royal Connection
The most widely accepted explanation traces the phrase back to the Order of the Garter, the oldest and most senior order of chivalry in Britain. Founded in 1348 by Edward III, the Order is associated with the legend of the Countess of Salisbury, whose garter slipped during a dance. The King, seeing the embarrassment it caused her, picked it up and declared “Honi soit qui mal y pense” (“Shame on him who thinks evil of it”), which became the motto of the Order. The garter itself, a dark blue velvet ribbon worn around the left leg below the knee by men (and on the left arm by women), became a potent symbol of the Order and its members.
But what about the “stars” part of the phrase? That refers to the star-shaped badges worn by Knights Grand Cross of various orders, including the Order of the Garter. These stars, often made of silver and encrusted with jewels, were a prominent display of honor and rank. The phrase “stars and garters” likely arose from the combined visual impact of these two significant symbols of British chivalry and aristocracy. Imagine witnessing a Knight of the Garter, resplendent in his regalia, complete with garter and star – it would certainly be a sight to behold! The connection between high status and visual grandeur is key to understanding the phrase’s origin.
To summarize the key elements:
- The Order of the Garter is a prestigious British order of chivalry.
- The garter is a symbolic ribbon worn by members.
- Star-shaped badges denoted high rank within the orders of chivalry.
Therefore, “My stars and garters!” likely evolved as an exclamation referencing these visible markers of nobility and importance. It was perhaps initially used ironically, as a mock expression of surprise at something seemingly ordinary. Over time, it lost some of its original connection to the Order of the Garter but remained as a colourful idiom for expressing surprise or emphasis. The phrase’s enduring power lies in its evocative imagery of royalty and grandeur, allowing speakers to add a touch of theatricality to their speech.
For a more in-depth look at the history and symbolism of the Order of the Garter, explore the official website linked in the sources after this paragraph. You will find a wealth of information about the Order’s history, its members, and its continuing significance in British society. Don’t just take my word for it – delve into the primary source material and discover the fascinating world of chivalry and royal tradition!