theguardian.com
Royal Mail Stamps Redefine British Patriotism Through Regional Folklore
Royal Mail's new stamps celebrate eight magical creatures from across the UK, including Blodeuwedd from Wales, Orkney selkies, and the Black Shuck from Norfolk, promoting a more inclusive sense of British identity rooted in shared experiences of place and regional folklore.
- How does Royal Mail's new stamp collection redefine British patriotism, moving beyond traditional notions of national identity?
- Royal Mail's new stamp collection showcases eight magical creatures from across the UK, highlighting regional folklore and challenging conventional notions of British patriotism. The stamps feature creatures like the Welsh Blodeuwedd and the Orkney selkies, connecting British identity to its diverse landscape and shared human experience.
- What role does regional folklore play in shaping a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of British identity, as exemplified by the stamp collection?
- This stamp collection counters narrow definitions of British patriotism by emphasizing shared experiences of place and regional folklore, rather than solely focusing on national institutions or political ideologies. The inclusion of creatures from various regions, such as the Cornish Piskies and the Black Shuck of Norfolk, fosters a sense of collective identity rooted in shared stories and landscapes.
- What are the potential long-term societal impacts of using regional folklore to foster a sense of shared national identity, and how might this approach counter divisive forces?
- By celebrating diverse regional folklore, the stamps subtly challenge divisive narratives of British identity. The collection's focus on shared experiences of place offers a more inclusive, emotionally resonant patriotism, potentially countering the divisive impact of nationalist rhetoric and fostering unity.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames British patriotism positively, contrasting it with potentially negative aspects such as nationalism or limited ideological preferences. The selection and emphasis on folklore and stamps serve to promote a specific, positive view of British identity and community. The use of examples like the Royal Mail stamps subtly guides the reader towards a particular interpretation of British patriotism.
Language Bias
The article uses loaded language such as 'tricksy wife', 'demonic black dog', and 'racist violence'. While some terms are necessary for descriptive purposes, their overall tone leans toward a subjective, emotional response rather than objective reporting. The use of words like "wretched" to describe the "Life in the UK" test displays clear bias.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on British folklore and patriotism, potentially omitting other relevant perspectives on national identity or the complexities of British history. While acknowledging limitations of space, the lack of diverse viewpoints might leave readers with an incomplete understanding of the multifaceted nature of British identity.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy between a 'secular patriotism' and a patriotism driven by emotion or aesthetic appreciation, oversimplifying the spectrum of possible patriotic sentiments. This framing risks excluding individuals whose patriotism does not fit neatly into these two categories.
Gender Bias
The article's analysis of gender is limited to the example of Blodeuwedd, a female character in Welsh folklore who is portrayed as deceptive and ultimately responsible for her husband's death. While this could be interpreted as highlighting female agency, the lack of other examples and broader discussions of gender representation in British folklore and beyond suggests an incomplete perspective.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses the importance of a shared British identity and patriotism that is inclusive and avoids nationalist chauvinism. This fosters social cohesion and contributes to peace and justice by countering divisive narratives and promoting a sense of belonging for diverse communities within the UK. Promoting a shared cultural identity that is inclusive helps build strong institutions by uniting people under a common national identity that is not based on exclusionary principles.