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MUST BE POLITE.

“BEWARE THE WINE.”

INVADERS OB' ITALY WARNED,

LONDON. “The Italian people, after three years of war, have respect for the efficiency and fighting qualities of our troops. Above all, they believe in our sense of chivalry and fair-play. It is of the first importance that this good opinion should be maintained.’ This is one of the warnings given to members of the Canadian Forces who joined in the invasion of Sicily before they embarked.

Each of them was handed a little 40-page booklet entitled “ Italy," showing on the front cover a picture of Agrigento, Sicily. The booklet is a miniature guide to the customs, habits, language, currency, and even the superstitions of Italians. It includes a list of words and phrases, with their pronunciations, which the men were “likely to need.”

About women, it says: “The less you have to do with them the better.” “The men are jealous and the code of morals strict.” “Loose women are almost unknown.”

Pointing out that Italian women are not allowed much freedom, the booklet goes on to say: “Even the most harmless behaviour on your part will arouse suspicion and may give offence .... anything in the na-

ture of courting or more is to look for trouble, and get it.” “You are. about to meet the Italian people on their home ground,” says the introduction. “For the first time you will he setting foot on enemy soil.”

“Your attitude and conduct toward the Italian people may help to reduce Italy’s military resistance, shorten the war, and determine our relations with Italy afterwards. “We want the co-operation of these ordinary Italians once they have got rid of their Fascist bosses.” The booklet “is not concerned with your conduct as soldiers in the field; you will know how to deal with the Italians as fighting men. It is concerned with your behaviour as a soldier and as an individual when dealing with the civilian population." “Don’t Patronise.” “It will help to give you a rough idea of how to get around.” Under the heading “Historical,” it says: “You should remember that in almost every Italian city there are monuments of art of the highest beauty which are part of the world’s heritage and belong not only to Italy but to Western Civilisation.”

Of the Italian people the booklet says: “The inhabitants will .be sore' enough as it is at defeat and invasion, Don’t rub it in or be patronising, hut try to establish and maintain good relations —especially be kind to children.”

“You must not think Italians are nit-wits or have no sense of humour. They have been taught to distrust and perhaps hate you. Make allowance for this in your relations with the civilian population.” About drink, it says: “Italy is a wine-producing country, but drunkenness is rare and considered disgraceful.”

“Tricky” Wines.

“Local wines are tricky and stronger than they taste . . they will upset your stomach and go to your legs as well as your head, unless you know when to stop.” “You will find no pubs in Italy. “Don’t chuck your money about because the rate of exchange is in your favour and the paymaster gives you many lire for your shilling. You will only be putting prices up against yourself and people will think you vulgar and foolish.” “The Golden Rule,” according to the booklet, is “Be considerate, keep your eyes and ears open. Don’t look for trouble or judge by appearances.”

In conclusion it says: “Italy is a reluctant enemy whatever the Fascists may say. The heart of the Italian people is not really in the fight and 1 it rests largely with you whether this becomes more or less.” The pamphlet was printed in both English and French.

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Permanent link to this item

https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AG19431116.2.73

Bibliographic details

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 64, Issue 31, 16 November 1943, Page 6

Word Count
623

MUST BE POLITE. Ashburton Guardian, Volume 64, Issue 31, 16 November 1943, Page 6

MUST BE POLITE. Ashburton Guardian, Volume 64, Issue 31, 16 November 1943, Page 6