17Th Century Etiquette
The French word "etiquette" as defined by a 17th-century dictionary is "is a small sign or labels of instruction." These small signs or etiquette mandated the behavior of the people who read them.
Other People Are Reading
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Teeth Picking
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In the 17th century, Cardinal Richelieu made it law that all table knives be made with blunt tips. This was believed to stop French men from slicing themselves when picking their teeth with knives.
Greeting the Hostess
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Women greeted the hostess of a soiree with a slight leaning in of her body and a smile. Men bowed and paid the hostess a compliment.
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Making Friends
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During this time period, it was customary that introductions were made between two strangers by a third party. Both parties had to give permission to meet each other before formal introductions.
Dancing
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Women had to wait to be asked to dance. The gentleman must never withdraw his dance offer or miss the dance once the offer had been extended.
Dining
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When invited to dinner, the guest ate off a plate and tore small pieces from breads or meats to eat. Cheese was to be eaten with a fork.
Drinking
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In the 17th century, it was considered rude, boorish behavior to appear drunk in public. It was worse to attend a party and become drunk.
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