Boer War German Propaganda

JLEES · Post by **JLEES** » 28 Nov 2006 13:56

Hello,
I just picked up this german produced propaganda postcard about the Boer War. I've translated the upper part of the card to read, "A good pig eats nearly everything, but a good farmer will prevent it!" Implying the British are acting greedy in Africa. Across the big it states, "Hony soit gui mal y pense". Does anyone recognize that language and know what is says?
James

Glenn2438 · Post by **Glenn2438** » 28 Nov 2006 15:00

Hi James,

Honi soit qui mal y pense. The motto of the British Order of the Garter. Usually translated as "Evil be to he evil thinks" or words to that effect.

Regards
Glenn

JLEES · Post by **JLEES** » 28 Nov 2006 15:19

Glenn,
Many thanks for you fast answer!

James

Chris Dale · Post by **Chris Dale** » 13 Dec 2006 20:23

JLEES wrote: Does anyone recognize that language?

The language is French, I believe. Glenn is of course absolutley right about its meaning and it's source. The Order of the Garter surrounds the shield on the British Royal Family's coat of arms, hence it being seen here as a British emblem.
Cheers
Chris

JLEES · Post by **JLEES** » 15 Dec 2006 03:26

Chris,
Thanks for the interesting observation! I had no idea the motto was also on the British Royal Family's coat of arms. The card's anti-British propaganda is making more sence now.
Thanks,
James

nondescript handle · Post by **nondescript handle** » 15 Dec 2006 13:48

Hi James,

"[...] aber ein guter Bauer gibt's nicht zu!" does not translate to "[...] but a good farmer will prevent it!"

zugeben means "to admit", so gibt's nicht zu (gibt's = gibt es) translates into something like "doesn't admit it".

Regards
Mark

JLEES · Post by **JLEES** » 15 Dec 2006 22:07

Thanks again Mark!
James

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