What is the difference between Quebec and France, culturally?

Question

and the differences in the French language?

thanks!

Answer 1

Quebec culture is characterized by both the North American and European (French) ways of life. Quebecers would not go as far as defining themselves as ''European'' (let alone like the French!) but would not say they are plain North Americans either. They fall somewhere in-between and that is just fine. The old argument claiming that Quebec wants to separate because of their affinities to France is completely erroneous. Many Quebecers will actually feel resentment towards the French, mainly due to their s****. attitude towards Quebecers (and especially when it comes to language).

There are simply too many cultural differences, but they are mostly marked by the fact that Quebec evolved without France ever since they left after the British Conquest (so 250 years ago) and because Quebec is located in North America and was heavily influenced by North American culture. Quebecers remain completely latin-blooded, however, and there is definitely still this sense of Europeanness felt in the way we eat, drink, celebrate or conduct our lives. Our takes on issues (be it social or political) will usually differ from the rest of the country (or even the continent) and will more often than not join those of European countries.

Differences in language are to be found mostly in the pronunciation (which is closer to the French spoken in the 17th century and on but before the French Revolution), a few differences in vocabulary and a slang or colloquial language that is largely incomprehensible for the average French person. Just keep in mind there is no difference in writing, only in oral speech and even then, one must remember that Standard Quebec French is pretty much just like European French. Quebecers will simply not speak Standard Quebec French and if the French Government hadn't gone through with its ''Frenchization'' campaign at the beginning of the 20th century, thus eliminating virtually all dialects and regional languages, the French wouldn't speak Standard French today either.

Answer 2

France has moved on in the world whilst Quebec has remained a xynophobic backwater and will continue to do so until they dump their politicians.

Answer 3

400 years of neglect on the part of the "mother" country allowed Quebec to develop its own style, language and culture.