Tag Archives: gentlemen

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 →

Gentlemen, Gentry and Regency Era Social Class

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During the Regency era social class played a huge role in all aspects of life. The nuances of social class and what makes a gentleman a gentleman remains a perennial source of confusion for Austenesque and Regency readers. How these men provided a livelihood for themselves and their families proves even more bewildering as some gentlemen had a profession, others did not, some were wealthy and some could find themselves in very dire straits. Social … Continue reading →

The Militia-A Different Breed of Officer

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In Austen’s Pride and Prejudice we encounter a military regiment temporarily stationed in Meryton. These men are members of the militia, not the regular army (discussed in the last post.) While at first blush, there may seem little difference between the regular army (the Regulars) and the militia, the differences are striking and significant.   What was the Militia? The militia served as a peace keeping force on home soil. History had taught that a … Continue reading →