Skip to content

Frenchmen Quote by Ambrose Bierce

“At war with savages and idiots. To be a Frenchman abroad is to be miserable; to be an American abroad is to make others miserable.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
Download Open image
“At war with savages and idiots. To be a Frenchman abroad is to be miserable; to be an American abroad is to make others miserable.”

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

The statement satirically compares the experience of being a foreigner from different nations, implying that national identity shapes one's comfort and impact abroad.

In simple terms: Being a foreigner feels different depending on nationality.

Key Takeaway

Consider how cultural identity affects your travel experience.

Themes

national identity exile misery

Mood

cynical humorous

Type

satirical observational

When to use this quote

  • expatriate life
  • diplomacy
  • tourism

Key Concepts

cultural critique satire

Questions to Reflect On

  • What assumptions do you hold about other nationalities?
  • How can you foster goodwill abroad?
A Different Perspective

It overlooks positive aspects of cross‑cultural exchange.

2.6 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Ambrose Bierce

Explore all 1,157 Ambrose Bierce quotes

More Frenchmen quotes

Browse all 76 Frenchmen quotes