National Identity and Patriotism

Where it surfaces

• Origny Sainte-Benoîte: A By-Day

  The chapter explores French patriotism after military defeat, the emotional power of national songs, and the narrator's own reflections on English identity and the loss of the American colonies.

• Origny Sainte-Benoîte: The Company at Table

  The comparison of French and Scottish attitudes toward politics and religion reveals deep cultural differences in national identity.

• At Compiègne

  The narrator contrasts French and British soldiers, expressing pride in British military bearing and recalling a girl's emotional patriotism.

• Edinburgh

  Edinburgh is portrayed as a symbol of Scottish national identity, with its history and landmarks reflecting a proud cultural heritage.

• Introductory

  Edinburgh is portrayed as a symbol of Scottish identity, with its historic role as a capital, its royal palace, and its enduring pride among natives even as they leave.

• The Parliament Close

  The Parliament Close is a site of Scottish history, from the Union to the legacy of John Knox, evoking a distinct national character.

• Legends

  Stevenson reflects on Scottish identity through its religious history, legends, and the character of Edinburgh as a symbol of the nation.

• VIII: The Calton Hill

  The Calton Hill's monuments and the unfinished National Monument reflect Scottish national pride and its complexities.

• Winter and New Year

  Scottish winter, language, poetry, and customs like curling and Scotch bun are celebrated as markers of national character.

• Florac

  The local pride in the Camisard ancestors and the enduring memory of the religious war highlight a strong regional identity.

• Despised Races

  Stevenson critiques the misuse of American ideals of freedom to justify racial exclusion and hatred.

• The Old and New Pacific Capitals

  Explores the clash and transition between Mexican and American national identities in California.

• Mexicans, Americans, and Indians

  Explores the clash and blending of Mexican and American identities, and the question of what 'American' means in a multicultural context.

• San Francisco

  Stevenson highlights the diverse nationalities in San Francisco, each celebrating their own holidays and maintaining their customs, creating a patchwork of identities rather than a unified American one.

• Calistoga

  The description of Calistoga as a distinctly American town, with its grid layout, local newspaper, and pioneering spirit, reflects a sense of national character.

• IV: The Scot Abroad

  Explores the profound, almost inexplicable attachment to Scotland that emerges when Scots meet abroad, transcending internal divisions.

• The Coast of Fife

  The historical and cultural significance of Fife as part of Scotland, with references to Scottish history and legends.

• Cockermouth

  The chapter explores the deep gulf between English and Scottish identity, despite shared blood, language, and religion.

• List of Illustrations

  Edinburgh landmarks such as the Castle, Holyrood, and St. Giles's evoke Scottish national identity.