WW1 - British Subaltern buys supplies
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WW1 - British Subaltern buys supplies
WW1 - The text accompanying the illustration translates to the British Subaltern asking the French shop keeper, " Could you please give me bread, butter and cheese for Mass? The shop keeper replies, " For Mass! My god, what religion!" Date: 1915
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Media ID 14225036
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Buying Buys Junior Keeper Scenario Subaltern Supplies Subordinate
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures a moment of cultural exchange and surprise during the chaotic and transformative period of the First World War. Dated 1915, the photograph depicts a British subaltern, a junior military officer, standing in a French shop, purchasing supplies for Mass. The subaltern, dressed in his military uniform, requests "bread, butter and cheese" from the French shopkeeper. The shopkeeper, taken aback by the unexpected religious reference, exclaims, "For Mass! My god, what religion!" The scene plays out against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict, which brought millions of soldiers from different nations and backgrounds together. The interaction between the British officer and the French shopkeeper highlights the diverse and complex social dynamics that emerged during the war. This historical snapshot offers a glimpse into the everyday experiences of soldiers and civilians, as they navigated the challenges and uncertainties of wartime life. The image also underscores the importance of food and sustenance during the war. The British subaltern's request for supplies for Mass suggests the role of religion in the lives of soldiers, and the need for nourishment to maintain their physical and spiritual well-being. The shopkeeper's reaction, in turn, reflects the curiosity and openness that characterized many encounters between soldiers and civilians from different countries. This poignant and intriguing image offers a unique perspective on the human stories that unfolded during the First World War, and serves as a reminder of the enduring connections that transcended the battlefield.
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