Self-help from the 17th century

lazygal

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/7359719/17th-century-book-warns-women-against-talking-to-men-to-pass-the-time.html

I saw this and wondered if any of the ladies would consider any of the points useful!

Giselle

Modesty is strongly encouraged by the book, which advises: "Abstain from wanton laughter and uncomley jests, loud talking and jeering is considered undecent.

I spent an evening listening to a person I work with cackling her head off at the worst, crudest, unfunniest jokes. When she wasn't doing that, she was slagging off another very quiet girl she knew wouldn't make a scene.

Not bad advice if you don't want to come across like she did.

The author also warned against using heavy make-up around the eyes, writing: "Beauty is not made by white, red or black eyes and a round face but by a straight body and smooth skin and a proportion to the fancy."

Have to agree with this too, but thats just personal preference.:)

Most of the rest is rubbish though!

FoxInATreehouse

Giselle wrote: »

I spent an evening listening to a person I work with cackling her head off at the worst, crudest, unfunniest jokes. When she wasn't doing that, she was slagging off another very quiet girl she knew wouldn't make a scene.

Now I don't agree with people being rude for the sake of being rude; I feel sorry for the quiet girl you mentioned. However, I don't really see a problem with people who are a bit exuberant. Some people are loud or laugh loudly, but that's just how they enjoy life. I have one friend who I doubt could laugh quietly if her life depended on it. When she is happy, you know it.

As to the quote: "clothing must 'never be light or amorous, never discover nakedness through a thin veil'." If someone feels comfortable showing off more skin, then good for them. Though there is something to be said about keeping a little mystery, and that can go with personality/interests too. Everyone has different degrees to which they feel comfortable.

Giselle

FoxInATreehouse wrote: »

Now I don't agree with people being rude for the sake of being rude; I feel sorry for the quiet girl you mentioned. However, I don't really see a problem with people who are a bit exuberant. Some people are loud or laugh loudly, but that's just how they enjoy life. I have one friend who I doubt could laugh quietly if her life depended on it. When she is happy, you know it.

Exuberant and boisterous is good.

Crass/tastesless/embarrassing = Cringer.:pac:

SeekUp

"Avoid the company of drunkards and busie-bodies and all such as are apt to talk too much with little purpose."

Hear hear!! Although they forgot the rest of it that should say " . . . and spread your business to others."