British Spirit
An important part of British culture is comedy. It can be used to handle even demanding situations with confidence. The comedy, sometimes referred to as British humour,
helps to create a pragmatic way of life in the island kingdom. In business and political life, it can be beneficial to become aware of this nature. The marriage and one-time Prime Minister Winston Churchil has made this characteristic his synonym. There are legendary stories about him, some of which we have found here.
- A Labour candidate who was defeated in the election campaign congratulated the eighty-year-old Churchill as follows: "We wish you a long and happy life!" Churchill expressed his gratitude succinctly: "Thank you very much! I've already had it!"
- His quick-witted dialogues with Nancy Astor, the first female MP in the House of Commons, are also legendary. To her accusation that he was drunk, he is said to have replied quite unmoved: "And you, Lady Astor, are ugly. But my condition will be over tomorrow morning..."
- Probably the most prominent exchange of blows between the two is considered to be guaranteed: "If you were my husband, I would pour poison into your tea," Astor said angrily. Churchill countered, "If I were your husband, Nancy, I would drink the tea."
- And finally, when asked what to dress up as at a costume party, she is said to have given him the tip: "Why don't you just come sober?"
In the museum shop of the Royal Pavilion & Garden in Brighton we found a book from the How to be British Collection. With their tacit acceptance, we show here some drawings on the respectful handling of "how to be British".
