The Imagery of National Anthems in Europe

In: Canadian review of studies in nationalism: Revue canadienne des études sur le nationalisme, Band 24, Heft 1-2, S. 33-41

Abstract

Analyzes the structure & imagery of the national anthems of several Western & Eastern European countries. National anthems convey patriotic meaning through the projection of three distinct spiritual themes: (1) establishment of a cognitive relationship between land & nation through delineation of a portion of the physical world as homeland; (2) endowment of time with national meaning, particularly through descriptions of struggles & burdens of the past that convey a sense of the nation being eternal; (3) the people's incessant love of country or national group. The motivating power of anthems is conveyed through descriptions of values such as justice, freedom, & national unity that are worthy of the sacrifice of a person's life. Rules of speech in national anthems are discussed. D. Generoli