
A thorough and inviting handbook, this volume gathers the social customs of the turn‑of‑the‑century into a single, easy‑to‑navigate reference. It begins with the fundamentals of introductions and salutations, then moves into the art of conversation, offering clear tips for becoming a lively, engaging talker. The guide also covers the etiquette of visiting cards, invitations, and the proper handling of acceptances and regrets, ensuring readers avoid common social faux pas. Throughout, the tone remains practical, addressing both gentlemen and ladies who wish to present themselves with confidence at home or abroad.
The book expands into every facet of genteel living: courtship, wedding rituals, party and dinner protocols, and even the delicate manners required at funerals. Detailed chapters on dress, letter‑writing, and tasteful home decoration are illustrated with fine phototype engravings, while an appendix reproduces sample cards for reference. Additional sections explore travel manners, public‑place conduct, and recreational activities such as riding and boating. Altogether, it serves as a compact companion for anyone seeking to master the conventions of polite society.
Full title
Twentieth Century Culture and Deportment Or the Lady and Gentleman at Home and Abroad; Containing Rules of Etiquette for All Occasions, Including Calls; Invitations; Parties; Weddings; Receptions; Dinners and Teas; Etiquette of the Street; Public Places, Etc., Etc. Forming a Complete Guide to Self-Culture; the Art of Dressing Well; Conversation; Courtship; Etiquette for Children; Letter-Writing; Artistic Home and Interior Decorations, Etc.
Language
en
Duration
~15 hours (871K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Chris Curnow, Les Galloway and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive)
Release date
2018-10-18
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects
Best known for practical late-19th-century books on cooking and etiquette, this American author wrote for readers who wanted clear advice for everyday life at home and in society. Her surviving works still offer a vivid glimpse of domestic habits and social expectations of the Victorian era.
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