Native Well Being: Henry James and the “Cosmopolite”

What is it about?

A look at James' various theorisations of national and cultural identity and belonging, with special emphasis on his article "Occasional Paris," and its opposition of the "patriot" and the "cosmopolite," as well as "The American Scene" and "The Question of Our Speech."

Featured Image

Why is it important?

James' reflections on national and cultural identity are more complex than often thought, and are especially timely now as constructions of ethnic and national prejudice become ever more powerful in the new "nativist" movements which are, ironically, sweeping the globe. Contra Theresa May, James' implicit argument that ethics can only begin when you recognise yourself as a "citizen of nowhere."