Decoding the English: An Anthropological Study of British Manners and Customs

Bookey En(Book Review and Notes)

Chapter 1:Summary of Watching the English Book

"Watching the English" by Kate Fox explores the peculiar behaviors, customs, and unwritten rules that make up the English culture. The book delves into various aspects of English life, such as social interactions, language, food, humor, and attitudes towards class and authority. Fox examines the importance of privacy and politeness in English society, as well as the ways in which the English use humor and sarcasm as a way of diffusing tension and avoiding confrontation. Overall, the book offers a humorous and insightful look at what it means to be English and provides a guide for foreigners looking to navigate the quirks and idiosyncrasies of English culture.
Chapter 2:the meaning of Watching the English Book

"Watching the English" is a book written by anthropologist Kate Fox that explores the social and cultural norms of the English people. In her book, Fox delves into the unwritten rules and behaviors that govern English society, from their obsession with queuing to their love of self-deprecation and aversion to personal topics of conversation. Through observations and insights, Fox sheds light on the peculiarities and idiosyncrasies of English culture, providing an entertaining and informative look into what it means to be English. The book offers an interesting and humorous examination of English social customs and behaviors, helping readers understand and navigate the complexities of English society.
Chapter 3:Watching the English Book chapters

Chapter 1: The Nations of Britain
- The chapter explores the concept of "national character" and stereotypes about the English, Welsh, Scottish, and Irish.
- Fox discusses regional differences, cultural quirks, and historical influences that shape the identities of each nation.
Chapter 2: Our Island Story
- Examines the English love of history and tradition, their fascination with royalty, and their attachment to symbols of national pride such as the Union Jack.
- Discusses the impact of World War II on English national identity and the role of nostalgia in English culture.
Chapter 3: The Laws of England
- Explores the English legal system, including the concept of "fair play," the importance of rules and regulations, and the English tendency to follow the law even when it doesn't make sense.
- Discusses the influence of class and social hierarchy on the legal system and everyday interactions.
Chapter 4: The English Home
- Examines the significance of the English home as a symbol of identity, privacy, and social status.
- Discusses the English love of gardens, pets, and home decoration, as well as their aversion to public displays of emotion.
Chapter 5: Manners and Behaviour
- Explores English etiquette, politeness, and social rituals, including the importance of queuing, apologizing, and maintaining a sense of reserve.
- Discusses the English disdain for loud or boastful behavior, as well as their discomfort with direct confrontation.
Chapter 6: The English Class System
- Examines the enduring influence of class in English society, including the concept of "social markers" and the impact of education, accent, and dress on social perceptions.
- Discusses the changing nature of class distinctions in contemporary England and the challenges of social mobility.
Chapter 7: The Social Ethos
- Explores the English attitudes towards work, leisure, and relationships, including the importance of professionalism, independence, and self-reliance.
- Discusses the impact of Protestant work ethic, individualism, and the value of privacy on English society.
Chapter 8: The English and Other People
- Examines English attitudes towards foreigners, immigrants, and cultural diversity, including the impact of historical events such as colonialism, wars, and globalization.
- Discusses the English reputation for politeness, reserve, and xenophobia, as well as the challenges of multiculturalism and integration.
Chapter 4: 10 Quotes From Watching the English Book

1. "Our understanding of the factors that shape cultural behavior can be improved through the study of ‘deep structures’—basic, largely unconscious, cultural assumptions that underlie behavior patterns—and ‘surface behaviors’—conspicuous, observable everyday actions and interactions."
2. "Englishness is an elusive quality, endlessly fascinating, frustratingly difficult to pin down, and yet instantly recognizable to anyone who has spent time in this country."
3. "The behavior patterns that constitute ‘Englishness’ are not entirely unique to the English, but they are distinctive, and in some respects even contradictory."
4. "English communication style is characterized by indirectness and understatement, with a strong emphasis on self-deprecation and humor."
5. "The English social hierarchy is complex and subtly nuanced, with status being determined by a combination of factors including education, occupation, wealth, and geographic origin."
6. "English manners are marked by a combination of reserve, politeness, and a certain formality, but also a strong emphasis on tolerance and ‘live-and-let-live’ attitudes."
7. "English attitudes towards class, money, and status are deeply ingrained and can be a source of both pride and anxiety."
8. "The English have a highly developed sense of privacy and personal space, and are generally uncomfortable with displays of emotion or physical affection in public."
9. "The English relationship with food is complex, involving a mix of traditional culinary preferences, modern dietary concerns, and a healthy dose of skepticism towards foreign cuisines."
10. "Understanding the nuances of English behavior requires a willingness to look beyond stereotypes and delve into the subtleties of culture and society."