· How
to behave, if you had become a member of the new class of
gentry?
· Proliferation
of books of etiquette, conduct guides, and courtesy manuals
defining gentility
· Some
books adopted a Puritan vision of a godly household
· Others
introduced French notions of politeness
· The
Gentleman's Calling (1660) and The Ladies' Calling
(1673) went through many editions
· All
aspects of behaviour had to be dealt with – how to bow, shake
hands, wear a hat, hold gloves, eat with a fork, use a napkin,
blow one's nose in public, pour tea, etc.
· The
books on etiquette also taught what not to do: no spitting,
chewing with the mouth open, eating with one's hands, scratching
yourself, putting your fingers in your mouth, nose, and ears,
etc.
