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#58449 02/25/02 01:56 PM
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French woman, just asked me to help her
I find it rather interesting that a person native to France asks a foreigner about fitting behavior in her own country. But it is by no means surprising, since in your own country you unconsciously adapt to prevailing rules, and in France this is especially so in my experience. They can tell straight away that there is a blundering American - but to say what he should do differently is another matter. In fact I suspect they prefer that he is easily recognised as such. And knowledge of English has increased tremendously in France over the past 30 years or so.


#58450 02/25/02 02:57 PM
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I remember reading in a German novel a long time ago that the hero knew the person across the room was an American, because he had his hands in his pockets. Europeans in their compulsory military training are punished for this and never forget it.


#58451 02/26/02 01:15 AM
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Geoff Offline OP
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I find it rather interesting that a person native to France asks a foreigner about fitting behavior in her own
country. But it is by no means surprising, since in your own country you unconsciously adapt to prevailing
rules, and in France this is especially so in my experience.


Interesting points! Of course, she does know her own country's rules of etiquette and decorum, but she is seeking printed material and/or videos that she can use to reinforce her own knowledge. In other words, a textbook for the class.

BTW, AS, many thanks for the reference! It looks good. And Dr, Bill, where did you find the videos you mentioned? Do you have the URL?

Thanks, y'all!


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