Category Archives: Regency Life

Christmas fun: Old Fashioned Parlor Games

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What to do with company that comes for Christmas? What about some old fashioned parlor games? I love the holiday season, especially because it means I can have friends and family over. Occasionally, boredom can strike though and I find myself scrambling for something fun to do. With long winter nights with only candlelight to see by and fireplaces for warmth, those who lived in the regency era confronted the boredom issue regularly. No wonder … Continue reading →

Planning a Ball

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 In Pride and Prejudice, Caroline Bingley is required to plan the Netherfield ball in something on the order of two weeks. What did planning a ball really require? Planning a Ball Most of us have, at some time or another been called upon to host an event. The frenzy, stress and excitement are familiar to us all, as is the way they all increase with the size and importance of the event–which helps explain the … Continue reading →

Conduct during Courtships in Jane Austen’s World

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Nothing, especially courtships were straightforward in Jane Austen’s World.   Squelching, not encouraging courtship Many of the rules governing conduct in courtship helped squelch the possibilities of romantic passion. These included forbidding the use of Christian names, paying compliments, driving in carriages alone together, correspondence, and any kind of intimate contact. If a couple was observed violating any of them, onlookers would immediately assume a proposal had been offered and accepted. Even mild displays of friendliness could … Continue reading →

Discreet Affections in Jane Austen’s World

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When Mr. Darcy proposed to Elizabeth at Hunsford, she was taken utterly by surprise. How likely was it that the discreet affections of a courtship could really escape the notice of one of the parties involved? Courtship Advice for the Gentleman Unmarried men had to exercise caution around unmarried young ladies. Attentions or even particular friendliness might be interpreted as romantic interest by the lady or her friends and family. Since men were not to express … Continue reading →

Making Introductions in Jane Austen’s World

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In Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Collins mortified Elizabeth Bennet at the Netherfield ball. His transgression? He introduced himself to Mr. Darcy and conversed with him. But why would introductions–or more specifically not having a formal one-have bothered her?  All About the Reputation During the Regency era, a young woman’s reputation could determine her future. A reputation could be marred by something as simple as an immodest fall while exiting a carriage. Mary Bennet was not exaggerating when … Continue reading →