| E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898. |
| | | Lion and Unicorn. | | |
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The animosity which existed between these beasts, referred to by Spenser in his Faërie Queene, is allegorical of the animosity which once existed between England and Scotland. | 1 |
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| “Like as a lyon, whose imperiall powre |
| A prowd rebellious unicorn defyes.” | |
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Lion and Unicorn. Ever since 1603 the royal arms have been supported as now by the English lion and Scottish unicorn; but prior to the accession of James I. the sinister supporter was a family badge. Edward III., with whom supporters began, had a lion and eagle; Henry IV., an antelope and swan; Henry V., a lion and antelope; Edward IV., a lion and bull; Richard III., a lion and boar; Henry VII., a lion and dragon; Elizabeth, Mary, and Henry VIII., a lion and greyhound. The lion is dexter—i.e. to the right hand of the wearer or person behind the shield. | 2 |
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