National Anthems

The Bangladesh National Anthem, is one that focuses on nature, beauty, and has an overall maternal feeling. Their country is reflected as a mother and source of life. Peace and beauty are evident as well. When Tagore wrote this beautiful poem in 1906, it was during a time where a division of the country was taking place, the British, based on religion. It became the newly formed country’s national anthem in 1972, a year after its established independence. This poem's maternal and peaceful undertones were thought of a peaceful reminder of better days, during times of turmoil and strife. (http://asnic.utexas.edu/countries/bangla/bangladeshm.html)

The Indian National Anthem, written in 1911, is much different from its neighbor of Bangladesh. Here a focus is placed on war, tribes, and masculinity. Fighting and conflict seem to be the main difference. Although, both anthems were written and used later on, when these countries were struggling for their independence.

France vs. United States

France:

Let's go children of the fatherland,

The day of glory has arrived!

Against us tyranny's

Bloody flag is raised! (repeat)

In the countryside, do you hear

The roaring of these fierce soldiers?

They come right to our arms

To slit the throats of our sons, our friends!

Refrain:

Grab your weapons, citizens!

Form your batallions!

Let us march! Let us march!

May impure blood

Water our fields!

(http://french.about.com/library/weekly/aa071400ma.htm for English translation)

A very violent national anthem, France encourages their people to stand up and fight for their rights against aristocracy, and overthrow their king. It talks of blood, and urges people to fight for their freedoms. This is very in tune with the time it was written. Its creation was during the heat of battle for the French Civil War. Here, the French people overthrew the aristocracy.

Our national anthem has a more optimistic point of view than that of the French. Written by Francis Scott Key in 1814, it focuses more towards the future. During a battle, has the flag survived? And can this flag still represent our “home of the brave?”

Both anthems were written during very important wars that would impact the creation of the country for the future. However, the French anthem is urging people to rise against tyranny. The United States’ anthem, in contrast, values bravery and freedom.