From this amphibious ill-born mob began That vain, ill-natured thing, an Englishman.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The author traces negative English national traits to flawed origins.
- In plain terms
- He blames the mix of people for bad character in England.
- What can you take from it?
- Origins shape national character.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does national origin define character?
- How do cultures evolve?
Another view
This view ignores individual agency and positive national developments.
More from Daniel Defoe
Wherever God erects a house of prayer, The Devil always builds a chapel there; And 'twill be found, upon examination, The latter has the largest congregation.
Permalink to quote #7 The royal refugee our breed restores With foreign courtiers and with foreign whores, And carefully repeopled us again, Throughout his lazy, long, lascivious re…
Permalink to quote #9 'Tis very strange Men should be so fond of being thought wickeder than they are.
Permalink to quote #6
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