Close your eyes and think of England

Definitions

• to endure a difficult or unpleasant situation
  To mentally escape from a difficult or unpleasant situation by focusing on a more positive or pleasant thought or memory, often in a stoic manner.

• to suppress negative emotions
  To ignore or suppress negative emotions, thoughts, or feelings, especially in regards to romantic or sexual encounters.

Examples of Close your eyes and think of England

Conclusion

The idiom "close your eyes and think of England" is commonly used to express the idea of enduring a difficult or unpleasant situation. It can also refer to suppressing negative emotions, particularly in the context of romantic or sexual activities. In both cases, the idiom suggests a sense of mental escape or detachment from the present situation.

Origin of "Close your eyes and think of England"

The origin of this idiom is often attributed to a quote by Queen Victoria, who is said to have advised her daughter to "close your eyes and think of England" during her wedding night as a way to endure the unpleasantness of sexual intercourse. However, there is no concrete evidence to support this claim and it is likely that the quote was invented and attributed to the Queen afterwards.

The phrase has also been linked to Victorian societal expectations of women, who were expected to endure the discomfort and pain of childbirth and other unpleasant experiences in order to fulfill their duties as wives and mothers. In this context, "thinking of England" may refer to focusing on the greater purpose or duty at hand rather than one's own personal discomfort.

Overall, the idiom "close your eyes and think of England" has evolved to encompass a broader idea of enduring difficult situations with a stoic attitude. Its origins may be rooted in Victorian societal norms, but its usage has expanded to apply to various situations and experiences.