What cultural aspects were discussed in this particular interaction?
The word association with France was discussed in this interaction. The flag and the flag colours were mentioned by the French students, as well as lavender and wine. The Eiffel tower was mentioned a lot in English but this is to be expected as it was from a touristic viewpoint.
What did I learn?
I learned how important the strikes are in French history and especially the ones in 1936, which led to holiday leave being created and a 40 hour working week being established. I found it interesting that the French see strikes and revolution as positive as it creates a change for the better and the Americans see it as something negative. This led me to wonder how we currently see them in Ireland?
The flag discussion then developed into one about pride versus. nationalism and whether identity refers to where you live or to the country as a whole. It proves difficult to generalize nationalism as the USA is so big.
It seems that Americans associate France with Europe in general, which is also news to me considering that all European countries are very diverse, both linguistically and culturally.
Were you surprised by any comment?
Is it true that American children sing the national anthem every day in school or make a pledge of allegiance. This seems over the top to me, yet I am accustomed to having an Irish flag in my house...
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