National and cultural meaning of English proverbs

Golikova Tatiana

the article considers valuable features of the English character and rules of behavior in society in the mirror of the English proverb. The conclusions are based on the analysis of a large body of examples from the online dictionary of English Proverbs. The main valuable traits of the English character are patience, endurance, decency, responsibility for their actions, hard work. The basic rules of behavior in English society – caution, distance in relations with people, secrecy. Don't judge people superficially or based on first impressions. In addition, the article discusses the specifics of English, Irish, Scottish, and Welsh Proverbs.

Keywords:picture of the world, folk wisdom, local colour.