Exam Topics. National Character and Stereotypes

We often see other nationalities as having a set of characteristics which set them apart from others. We may not like them, but consciously or subconsciously we absorb, use and spread stereotypes. We all return from holiday destinations with tales of what local people there are like. Having met only a few representatives of the nation, we are tempted to generalize and attribute the qualities of one person to the whole nation.

Some stereotypes about cultures or nationalities may be positive, even amusing when presented as jokes and anecdotes. But quite often they have become a source of anger, conflicts and racist behavior which creates barriers between people and even nations.

The more famous the nation is, the more swayed by stereotypes it is. And there isn’t a nation in the world which is more discussed and more stereotyped than the British are. A nation of gentlemen, tea drinkers, pub goers, animal lovers and football fans – these are the most widely spread images of this nation. The British are also famous for their tolerance and sense of humour, yet they don’t always say what they think and can be intentionally rude. The British are really conservative; they love familiar things in familiar places. Their conservatism may be illustrated by the attitude to the monarchy.

Britain is known as the land of law and order. So the best reason for the British to do something in a certain way is that it has always been done in that way. For example, their theatres are closed on Sundays. This was decided by the law in the days of Shakespeare and since that time the law has been in force.

The British have a cult of privacy. They protect their privacy. England is the land of brick fences, stone walls, hedges. They are a nation of stays-at-home. As the proverb says, “An Englishman’s home is his castle”. Gardening is still one of the most popular hobbies in the country.

However, the British are not one nationality but four, who all see each other differently. The Welsh are considered to be a much more talkative group. And indeed Wales has produced many preachers and trade union leaders, particularly in the 19^th century. In contrast, the Scots are seen as more serious.

But today Britain is a multicultural society because of the large scale immigration to Britain. These ”new British” people have brought widely differing sets of attitudes with them. In spite of different accents, cultural backgrounds and different views, they are still all part of an island race, whose culture and customs are mixed so well together that they produce a British identity.

The American nation, however, is more difficult to generalize due to the diversity and multiculturalism of its population. The United States is often called a melting pot, which means that people from many lands have come together and formed a unified culture. Americans have many things in common, for instance the vast majority of them speak English, people throughout the country dress similarly and eat many of the same kinds of foods.

American society seems to be much less formal than the British, both   in language, greetings and the manner of dress. Americans are proud of their individualism and an enormous feeling of patriotism. American society is considered to be a haven for those who long for freedom and opportunities. Right for freedom is the first one, mentioned in the US Constitution’s Bill of Rights and it is the most precious one for most Americans. Volunteerism is the soul of American community and political life. Volunteering means helping people without being paid and the willingness to participate is so widespread that six out of ten Americans are members of a volunteer or charity organization.  These values have developed historically through wars and struggles that’s why they are so appreciated.

As a nation of immigrants, Americans are always ready to move to a new place hoping to find a better job or enjoy climate. Most Americans take it for granted that they may live in four or five cities during their lifetime. Mobility in America is not a sign of aimlessness but optimism.

Belarusian traditions and features of the national character were formed in the course of complex history. The area of the country was an arena for many military conflicts, World Wars, national liberation revolts, revolutions and repressions. So our extraordinary history cultivated special character traits: the main of them tolerance and diligence. Different from anyone else, Belarusians are able to adapt to any circumstances – not to change them, but to change themselves, to accept these circumstances, to live them naturally, in harmony and even with pleasure.

 Belarusians are known to be hardworking people but at the same time very homely. That’s why life of a typical Belarusian is basically centered on work and family. They don`t lose their temper and patience. Belarusian people are tolerant; but at the same time they are reserved, not very jolly and rather pessimistic. The Belarusians are open, friendly and very hospitable. Belarusians are true potato eaters and the potato is even called “the second bread”.

In conclusion, I want to say that the 21^st century is marked by a huge free flow of information exchange on the Internet. It has brought a lot of advantages, but also wide distribution of false information. So take everything you see and read with a grain of salt. Don’t judge people by their appearance, skin colour or nationality. If you want to get a healthy outlook on the world, you should travel more. Get to know the world and people through your own experience and get rid of prejudice. Crush stereotypes, celebrate individuality, and you will learn, grow and be a happier person.

Let’s talk about national character and stereotypes.

1. What can you tell me about the Belarusian people?

2. Is there anything you want to change in your character?

3. What questions will you ask me to understand what kind of person I am?

4. Your British friend wants to discover Belarusian cuisine. What advice will you give him/her?

5. Why do you think we should be suspicious of stereotypes?

Let’s talk about national character and stereotypes

1.     How will you describe a typical Belarusian?

2.     Is it true that Belarusians eat potatoes with every meal?

3.     What questions will you ask your British friend to find out their opinion about our country?

4.     Give me a piece of advice on how to choose the right person to do a project together.

5.     We can’t believe all the stereotypes about different nationalities. What do you think about it?Write the answers to the questions in comments. Answers will be graded.