SuitabookHow To Be A Lady
Harvey Newcomb
- Reading
- Read a chapter at a time and pause to separate practical etiquette from religious instruction. Invite comparison with present-day expectations, while allowing the reader to identify advice that feels meaningful, dated or debatable.
- Themes
- Christian piety and character: The book presents piety as connected with action and the regulation of the soul, within advice for Christian girls. The book?s stance on this remains unclear.
- Ideas about womanhood: The stated aim is to help Christian girls become godly women, and the work is also described as offering hints on womanly character. The book?s stance on this remains unclear.
- Everyday relationships and manners: Named chapters concern treatment of brothers, sisters and others in the family, choosing society and forming friendships, behaviour at table, and governing the tongue. The book?s stance on this remains unclear.
- Worth knowing
- Some guidance may feel strongly tied to Christian belief and to a particular model of female character. Consider whether its advice is presented as universal, and which parts reflect its period rather than your family’s values.