The Power of Language and the Divide Between Britain and america: Insights from Sinclair Lewis’s “Babbitt”
The bond of language between Great Britain and the United States has long been celebrated as a unifying force. However, as MR. H. A. L. FISHER recently observed after his visit to America, this linguistic connection may not be as powerful a tool for fostering sympathy and understanding as many believe. While a common language is undeniably critically important, it is indeed not enough to bridge the profound differences in mentality and values between the two nations.
“A common language is something. A common point of view is much more,” the article asserts. this sentiment underscores the complexity of Anglo-American relations. Visiting cities like New York, Boston, and Philadelphia offers only a superficial glimpse into the American psyche. To truly understand the heart of America, one must turn to the Middle West, a region that wields significant political influence and shapes national policy.
Here, Sinclair Lewis’s novel “Babbitt” serves as a revealing lens. The book delves into the soul—or, as some might argue, the soullessness—of the Middle West. Through the character of George F. Babbitt, a prosperous real estate broker in the fictional city of Zenith, lewis exposes the conformity, social expectations, and personal dissatisfaction that define this pivotal region.
The differences between the typical Englishman and the typical American are stark. Their mentalities, values, and worldviews diverge considerably. For Great Britain, it’s European identity is inescapable. “Her past was European, her future must be European, her interests are European,” the article emphasizes. These facts carry far-reaching consequences, shaping Britain’s role on the global stage.
The notion that Britain should distance itself from Europe, as some “English-speaking” enthusiasts suggest, is dismissed as “sheer rubbish.” The article argues that Britain’s destiny is inextricably linked to its European neighbors,a reality ordained by history and geography.
To better understand these dynamics, consider the following table summarizing key points:
| Aspect | Great Britain | United States |
|————————–|——————————————–|——————————————–|
| Identity | European | Rooted in the Middle West |
| Cultural Insight | European history and future | Explored in Sinclair Lewis’s “Babbitt” |
| Political Influence | European neighbors | Middle West’s role in elections |
| Language’s Role | Insufficient for understanding | Shared but not unifying |
while the English language connects Britain and America, it is indeed not a panacea for their differences. Understanding the true essence of America requires a deeper exploration of its heartland, as depicted in “Babbitt”. Meanwhile, Britain’s European identity remains a cornerstone of its past, present, and future.
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