Deutscher Michel

Der Deutsche Michel (literal. "The German Michael") is a figure representing the national character of the German people, rather as John Bull represents the British and Uncle Sam represents Americans.

Overview

Such figures differ from those that serve as personifications of the nation itself, as Germania did the German nation and Marianne the French. He is usually depicted wearing a nightcap and nightgown, sometimes in the colours of the German flag, and represents the Germans' conception of themselves, especially in his easy-going nature and Everyman appearance. In German, Michel is also the short form of Michael, though quite rare today.

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See also