Meaning: The quote "The insular arrogance of the English character is a commonplace joke" is a statement made by Goldwin Smith, a prominent historian and journalist. This quote reflects a common perception of the English character as being characterized by a sense of insularity and arrogance. In order to understand the significance of this quote, it is important to consider the historical and cultural context in which it was made, as well as the broader implications for the English national identity.

Goldwin Smith was a 19th-century historian and journalist who was known for his insightful commentary on British society and politics. Born in England and later moving to Canada, Smith had a unique perspective on the English character and was not afraid to critique aspects of it. His statement about the "insular arrogance" of the English character suggests a critical view of the national identity and cultural attitudes prevalent in England during his time.

The term "insular" refers to the idea of being isolated or detached from the rest of the world. In the context of the English character, it suggests a sense of self-importance and a tendency to view the world from a narrow, self-centered perspective. This insularity could be seen as a result of England's historical position as an island nation, which has often been perceived as being separate and distinct from the rest of Europe.

The word "arrogance" in the quote indicates a sense of superiority or self-importance. It suggests that the English character may be perceived as exhibiting an attitude of superiority towards other nations and cultures. This could be seen as a result of England's historical role as a colonial power and its global influence during the height of the British Empire.

The quote also refers to the idea of the English character as a "commonplace joke." This suggests that the perception of English insularity and arrogance is not only prevalent but also widely recognized and even ridiculed. It implies that this aspect of the English national identity has become a well-known stereotype or caricature, both within and outside of England.

In contemporary times, the quote still holds relevance as it reflects a long-standing stereotype of the English character. The perception of English insularity and arrogance has persisted in popular culture and public discourse, often portrayed in literature, film, and media. This stereotype has been perpetuated through depictions of English characters as haughty, reserved, and dismissive of other cultures.

It is important to note that stereotypes and generalizations about national characters can be reductive and oversimplify the complexities of individual identities and cultural diversity within a nation. The quote by Goldwin Smith should be viewed in the context of its time and as a reflection of a particular perspective on the English character rather than a definitive statement on the national identity of England.

In conclusion, the quote "The insular arrogance of the English character is a commonplace joke" by Goldwin Smith reflects a critical view of the English national identity, particularly in relation to perceptions of insularity and arrogance. It serves as a reminder of the enduring stereotypes and caricatures that have shaped perceptions of the English character, while also prompting a deeper exploration of the complexities and diversity within any national identity.