The behaviour book: A manual for ladies

About this book

"The Behaviour Book: A Manual for Ladies" by Eliza Leslie is a guide on etiquette and proper conduct for women, written in the mid-19th century. The text aims to instruct young women on acceptable behavior in various social situations, particularly regarding visiting etiquette and interactions with others. The focus is on promoting decorum and social grace in everyday encounters, pivotal themes in the norms of the period. At the start of the manual, Leslie discusses the nature of visiting, humorously proposing terms to describe the varying lengths of visits, such as "visitation" for longer stays. She emphasizes the importance of proper etiquette when receiving invitations, making visits, and interacting with hosts and guests. Key recommendations include informing hosts of intended visit lengths, expressing gratitude, and avoiding unwelcome intrusions into private spaces. The opening sets the tone for the practical advice and detailed guidelines that the author continues to provide, indicating her intention to promote thoughtful and respectful social behavior among women of her time.