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Our civility, England determines the style of, inasmuch as…

“Our civility, England determines the style of, inasmuch as England is the strongest of the family of existing nations, and as we are the expansion of that people. It is that of a trading nation; it is a shopkeeping civility. The English lord is a retired shopkeeper, and has the prejudices and…” quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“Our civility, England determines the style of, inasmuch as England is the strongest of the family of existing nations, and as we are the expansion of that people. It is that of a trading nation; it is a shopkeeping civility. The English lord is a retired shopkeeper, and has the prejudices and timidities of that profession.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

English civility reflects a commercial, modest character shaped by trade and practicality, influencing social behavior

In simple terms: English manners are practical and modest due to trade culture

Key Takeaway

Appreciate the practical roots of cultural behavior

Themes

culture trade modesty

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

cultural historical

When to use this quote

  • business meetings
  • diplomatic negotiations
  • social etiquette

Key Concepts

civility national identity economic influence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does commerce shape national character?
  • Can civility be both modest and assertive?
A Different Perspective

May overlook other cultural influences

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