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What do foreigners think about Poles and Polish society (MA thesis)? [14]
Here are some Polish traits that might be worth exploring:
HIGH-POWERED HOSPITALITY: I have heard Americans vesting Poland say "they tried to wine and dine me to death" when trying to describe that arm-twisting, never-take-no-for-an-answer "polska gościnność". Of course, it is typical of other Slavonic peoples and perhaps most traditional, agrarian societies. It is most pronounced in the remote countryside and less so in big cities.
XENOPHILIA: This term is rarely encountered anywhere as opposed to xenophobia, but Poles have been true to what Mickiewicz once said: "Co Francuz wymyśli, Polak polubi!" Except today the term "Amerykanin" would be more a propos. This probably stems from a sense of inferiority vis-a-vis the West, because it is selective xenophilia, not normally extended to Africans, Arabs, Orientals and other Third World types.
VALOUR: The story of legendary Polish cavalrymen that so impressed Napoleon at Somosierra has repeated itself only in times of extreme threat -- the only time Poles can really get their act together. The same was true in the Battle of Britain and during Solidarity’s struggle against communism. But when things settle down, teamwork again becomes problematic and everyone goes their separate way.
QUARRELSOMENESS: Squabbling, bickering and back-biting are a prominent feature of the Polish political seen, going back to the times of Liberum Veto if not before. Polish politicians work themselves into a frenzy at the slightest provocation and are ready to drown their adversary in a teaspoon of water (a Polish saying!) at the drop of a hat.
Good luck with your MA thesis. BTW, I have compiled a list of foreign impressions of Poles and Poland starting with the 11th-century Arab traveller Ibrahim. If interested, give your e-mail address.
