Identity

Prof. CHIKHI
What is identity?
 Gardiner identify identity as “a person’s self-definition as a separate and
distinct individual, including behaviors, beliefs, and attitudes.”
 Several variables determine identity, including parenting, environment, social
interactions, personal experiences, and cultural influences. It may be a
complicated and complex idea, and people' identities may vary or change over
time as a result of personal growth, experiences, and exposure to diverse
surroundings.
 The study of identity helps to understand cultural diversity and intercultural
dynamics within cosmopolitan societies like UK for example.
Categories of identity
 For Hall, there are three categorizations of identity

1- Personal identities
2- Relational identities
3- Communal identities
Subcategories of social identity
 Racial identity: Biological heritage that produces similar, identifiable physical
characteristics.
 Ethnic identity: a sense of shared heritage, history, traditions, values, area of
origin.
 National identity: belonging to a nation by birth or naturalization
 Regional identity: cultural contrasts among geographical regions in one
society.
 Local identity: It is manifested through customs, food, different legacies
within a local community in a town or a neighborhood.
BRITISHNESS
 ‘Britishness’ since the 1707 union between England/Wales and Scotland has
been largely identified with representative and centralized state institutions,
such as monarchy, Parliament, law and Protestant churches, and their
values.
 Concepts of Britishness were more widely used in the nineteenth century and
tied to the Victorian monarchy and Britain’s imperial, industrial and military
position in the world.
National, regional, and
local identities
National Identity:
 National identity refers to the sense of belonging and allegiance to a
particular nation-state. It encompasses the shared cultural, historical, and
social heritage that distinguishes one nation from another. National identity
often includes common values, traditions, symbols, language, and historical
narratives that contribute to a collective sense of unity and belonging among
the citizens of a nation.
 "The United Kingdom's national identity is intricately woven from the distinct
cultures of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland."
 Examples of national symbols and their cultural significance, such as the
English flag, the Scottish Saltire, the Welsh Dragon, and the Red Hand of
Ulster.
Scotland's National Identity
 The Scottish national identity is characterized by its rich cultural heritage,
including the traditional dress of kilts and tartans, as well as the bagpipe
music. The annual celebration of Burns Night, dedicated to the famous
Scottish poet Robert Burns, is a significant event that reinforces Scottish
cultural identity
Welsh National Identity
 Wales has a distinct national identity seen through the celebration of St.
David's Day, the patron saint of Wales. The Welsh language, literature, and
folklore, including the famous tales of the Mabinogion, are integral to Welsh
national identity.
English National Identity
 England's national identity is intertwined with its historical landmarks such
as the Clock Tower of London, Stonehenge, and its cultural symbols like the
Tudor rose. Events like the annual Notting Hill Carnival and the Chelsea
Flower Show also represent modern English culture.
Northern Irish National Identity
 Northern Ireland's national identity is influenced by its unique blend of
British and Irish cultures. The Ulster Museum and the Giant's Causeway are
significant symbols of Northern Irish identity. The celebration of St. Patrick's
Day and the Orange Order parades are events that highlight the diverse
cultural fabric of Northern Ireland.
Regional identity
 Regional identity pertains to the distinctive characteristics, traditions, and
cultural attributes that are specific to a particular geographical region within
a country. It is shaped by the unique customs, dialects, history, and
geographic features that differentiate one region from another. Regional
identity often fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity among the
inhabitants of a specific region, contributing to the diversity and cultural
richness of a nation.
 "UK boasts a myriad of regional identities, each contributing to the country's
cultural vibrancy."
 Examples of regional diversity, including the Yorkshire dialect, Cornish
traditions, and the industrial heritage of the North.
Yorkshire, England
 Yorkshire's regional identity is characterized by its distinct dialect, known as
"Yorkshire dialect," and its rich industrial history, particularly in the textile
and steel industries. The annual Yorkshire Day celebrations and the York
Minster Cathedral are prominent symbols of the region.
-The Yorkshire Day: Originating as a military holiday, its roots stem from more
than a few things, including the emancipation of slaves in 1834, and a few
military customs and some protests about losing Yorkshire's cultural identity.
-York’s majestic Gothic cathedral, the biggest such
structure in England and clearly charts the
development of English Gothic architecture from
Early English through to the Perpendicular Period.
Cornwall, England
 Cornwall's regional identity is closely tied to its Celtic heritage, as seen
through its unique language and cultural traditions. The celebration of the
Cornish holiday of St. Piran's Day and events like the Golowan Festival
showcase the rich cultural heritage of Cornwall.
The Highlands, Scotland
 The Highlands of Scotland have a strong regional identity shaped by the
breathtaking landscapes, traditional Highland games, and the historical
significance of clans. The annual Highland Games and the iconic Scottish
Highland dress contribute to the distinctiveness of this region.
Local identity
 Local identity refers to the individual or collective attachment and
identification with a specific community, neighborhood, town, or city within a
region. It is characterized by the shared customs, traditions, social
interactions, and community values that are unique to a particular local
area.
 Local identity is often rooted in the intimate experiences, landmarks, and
interpersonal relationships that shape the daily lives of people within a
specific locality, fostering a strong sense of belonging and community
cohesion.
 “Local identities within cities, towns, and villages play a crucial role in
shaping the social fabric of the United Kingdom."
 Illustration of local events and customs, such as the Notting Hill Carnival,
the Edinburgh Festival, and the Eisteddfod.
Notting Hill, London
 Notting Hill's local identity is highlighted by the vibrant and diverse Notting
Hill Carnival, which celebrates Caribbean culture and diversity. The
Portobello Road Market and the Electric Cinema are local landmarks that
contribute to the unique character of this area.
Edinburgh, Scotland
 Edinburgh's local identity is shaped by its rich literary history, represented
by the annual Edinburgh International Book Festival and the famous
Edinburgh Fringe Festival. The Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile are
iconic landmarks that symbolize the city's cultural significance.
Cardiff, Wales
 Cardiff's local identity is influenced by its rich sporting heritage, particularly
with the Millennium Stadium and its support for rugby and football. The
annual National Eisteddfod of Wales, showcasing Welsh language and arts, is
a significant event that highlights Cardiff's local identity.
 In conclusion, the United Kingdom's national, regional, and local identities
contribute to its cultural richness and societal harmony.
 Understanding and respecting these diverse identities is pivotal for fostering
social cohesion and promoting a shared sense of belonging."