"Although the works of Gilbert and Sullivan have gained a reputation for being chummy, collegiate and a little pompous, For He is an Englishman is in fact a bitingly satirical piece of faux-patriotism. Although it sounds like something to be bellowed by tipsy Last Night of the Proms poshos, the song speaks to the kind of blind nationalism that bases exceptionalism purely on the location of one's birth."
"For he might have been a Roosian, a French, or Turk or Proosian, it goes, But in spite of all temptations to belong to other nations, he remains an Englishman. No wonder the song has become the rallying cry of the rich and horrible. Both Muck and Roper's sense of superiority by birthright drips out of them. There aren't many songs that can nail this precise feeling with the sheer accuracy of For He is an Englishman."
Kit Harington's Henry Muck in Industry season four displays worsening self-destruction: depression, intoxication, suicidal impulses, and promiscuity culminating in a club encounter following him singing 'For He is an Englishman' in the shower. Hugh Laurie's Richard Roper also sings the song, reinforcing its association with morally corrupt characters. The song 'For He is an Englishman' functions as satirical faux‑patriotism that mocks blind nationalism built on birthright. Lyrics emphasizing remaining English despite temptations of other nations underline exceptionalism by birthplace. The song has become a rallying chant for the rich and horrible, though its television use has varied over time.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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