For He Is An Englishman

Gilbert & Sullivan's song 'For He Is An Englishman' is a spirited celebration of national pride and identity. The lyrics repeatedly emphasize the character's unwavering commitment to his English heritage, despite the potential allure of other national identities. This steadfastness is portrayed as a virtue, highlighting the character's loyalty and sense of belonging to his nation. The repetition of the phrase 'He remains an Englishman' underscores the importance of this identity to the character and, by extension, to the audience.

The song employs a light-hearted and somewhat humorous tone, typical of Gilbert & Sullivan's operatic style. The mention of other nationalities such as 'Roosian,' 'French,' 'Turk,' and 'Proosian' adds a playful element, suggesting that while these identities are acknowledged, they are not as desirable as being English. This reflects the Victorian-era British sentiment of national superiority and pride, which was prevalent during the time Gilbert & Sullivan were writing.

Culturally, the song can be seen as a reflection of the British Empire's global influence and the strong sense of national identity that accompanied it. The character's resistance to 'temptations to belong to other nations' can be interpreted as a metaphor for the British Empire's resilience and the pride of its citizens in their national identity. This song, like many of Gilbert & Sullivan's works, uses wit and satire to comment on societal norms and attitudes, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.