Every country has some stereotypes about other countries and their citizens. And it’s said that each stereotype contains at least a grain of truth. So, in today’s article I want to focus on eight of the most common stereotypes about Italians, and give you my opinion about them.
1. ITALIANS GESTURE A LOT
That’s true. We generally use gestures to emphasize what we’re saying. In Italy gestures are considered an important non verbal language. We have gestures to indicate that we’re hungry, thirsty, bored, and so on. So, if you want to fully understand Italians, gestures are definitely something that you should learn sooner or later.
2. ITALIANS ARE FASHION VICTIMS
Yes and no. Let’s say that in Italy appearances count a lot. Thus, people always try to look good. However, this doesn’t mean that every person wears Gucci, Prada, Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabbana and so on. Most of the people are just able to combine colors well. For summer afternoons, even some shorts and a tank top can do the trick.
3. ITALIANS HAVE DARK HAIR AND OLIVE SKIN
This is definitely false. Many Italians have blond or red hair and pale skin.
4. ITALIANS = MAFIA
That’s not true. Is there mafia in Italy? Sure, as there are criminal organizations in every other country. But this doesn’t mean that all Italians are Mafiosi.
5. ITALIANS EAT ONLY PASTA AND PIZZA
False. In Italy there are a lot of different dishes and these include also vegetables, rice, meat, eggs and fish. Remember the famous Mediterranean diet? When possible, we try to eat different types of food.
6. ITALIANS DRINK A LOT OF COFFEE
Well, it depends on what your idea of a lot is. Italians usually love coffee – I’m an exception – and they drink it in the morning and/or after the meals. So, let’s say that if an average of two or three cups of coffee a day are a lot for you, than I guess this stereotype is true.
7. ITALIANS MALES ARE VERY ROMANTIC
I think it depends on people. Usually when an (Italian) man wants to win a woman’s heart he can resort to any romantic practice to reach the goal. However, after he managed to do so…everything is possible. Let’s just say that it really depends on people.
8. ITALIANS LOVE FOOTBALL
This is true. Italians are generally great fans of football. Remember: don’t you dare make a negative comment on their favorite team or you’ll end up in an endless discussion with them!
Are there any stereotypes about Italians in your country?
Did you visit Italy and noticed that some of the stereotypes about Italians are true or false?
Feel free to post your comments below.
