Week four: (05/03/2012 – 11/03/2012) Areas of culture

Now that we have settled into our new environment and have our classes organised (even our placement!) it is has been easier to focus on the different aspects of Polish culture. This week there were a variety of events which allowed me to participate and understand this side of Poznan. I have found that although it is a highly developed country, it retains its traditions.

                                         Kasimir Festival

On Sunday (4^th March) DarÓma and I walked around the Old Square, (Stary Rynek) with some of our Erasmus friends, where the Kasimir Festival was being held. This happens once a year, having different stalls of food, flowers, jumble sales etc. There were different performances of Polish culture throughout the day; dances, choirs and small plays, which were very entertaining to watch. Although I am unsure of why this event takes place, it was a pleasure to see different aspects of Polish culture on such a grand scale.

Dzien Kobiet

Thursday (8^th March) was International Women’s Day (Dzien Kobiet). During the time of the communist regime, this holiday was meant to commemorate women’s, economic, social and political achievements (as well as to spread the communist ideology). On this day women received scarce gifts (such as tights, make up, flowers) and there would have been lectures held stressing the importance of the woman on the national economy. Unfortunately in 1993, the holiday ceased to be celebrated on this grand scale, but the tradition of giving the much-loved women in your life flowers (or chocolates) has largely survived. I personally feel that Northern Ireland should take up this tradition, as it was lovely to see men walking around with a single tulip or rose for their special ladies. DarÓma and I each received a chocolate bar from a man coming out of class. It definitely makes you feel special!

                                                                                    Language

During a class we were asked to write down things that shocked us about Poland when we first arrived. One of the things I wrote was that I was surprised that the receptionists at our accommodation didn’t speak any English, seeing so many Erasmus students stayed there. The tutor explained to us that if someone is forty years old or above, they would not have learnt English at school. At this time it was beneficial for Polish people to learn Russian or German as they were neighbour countries, whereas young people are now taught English from an early age. Poland joined the EU in 2004; this change made the English language more relevant to Poland, however, some people are still not confident with using the English they know. She described Poland as being a ‘closed’ country before, with little multiculturalism, but is now getting more diverse. It has made me think about the languages that are taught in our schools. Most schools teach French, Spanish or German, however, I think Polish lessons will start to be introduced in our schools as more Polish and Northern Irish people immigrate and emigrate.

Skiing

Something you can definitely not find in Belfast is skiing! I had been very excited to explore this aspect of culture when I had first heard I would be coming to Poland and it did not disappoint! Although I cannot say I was great at it, it has been one of my favourite experiences during my time here in Poznan so far!

DarÓma and I when we were good at skiing!

DarÓma and I when we weren't so good at skiing...