Subject
Courtesy -- Early works to 1800 Books
Best books
Baldassarre Castiglione
The Book of the Courtier
"The Book of the Courtier" by conte Baldassarre Castiglione is a philosophical dialogue composed between 1508 and 1528. Set over four evenings at the Renaissance court of Urbino, the work presents courtiers debating what makes an ideal gentleman worthy of serving a prince. They discuss noble rank, physical prowess, artistic knowledge, proper speech, and the mysterious quality of *sprezzatura*—a studied nonchalance that conceals effort. The book also explores humor, love, and the nature of the perfect court lady, creating a portrait of a vanishing world.
Giovanni Della Casa
A Renaissance Courtesy-book: Galateo of Manners & Behaviours
"A Renaissance Courtesy-book: Galateo of Manners & Behaviours" by Giovanni della Casa is a courtesy book published in 1558. This influential Renaissance guide teaches readers how to navigate everyday social situations with grace and charm. From table manners to conversation etiquette, della Casa offers practical advice on avoiding common social mistakes while maintaining attractive conduct. Written with dry humor and keen observation, the work became so popular that its title entered the Italian language as a term for etiquette itself, influencing centuries of manners guides across Europe.
Luis Milán
Libro intitulado El cortesano. Libro de motes de damas y caballeros
"Libro intitulado El cortesano. Libro de motes de damas y caballeros" by Luis Milán is a historical text likely written in the late 16th century. The work serves as a guide to the customs and behaviors expected of a gentleman, showcasing the interactions and relationships within a noble court setting. The text delves into the wit and exchanges between various characters, providing insight into social norms and ideals of nobility during this time period. The opening of the work introduces the context and intentions behind it, noting the rarity and significance of Milán's writing as a reflection of Spanish courtly life. It begins with a whimsical anecdote set in ancient Rome, illustrating the importance of the virtuous knight and presenting the idea of what it means to be 'cortesano' (courteous) in both word and deed. Following this introduction, the narrative includes a lively depiction of a royal hunt involving the Duke of Calabria and his court, characterized by exchanges of riddles and playful banter among nobles and their spouses, setting the stage for deeper explorations of love, jealousy, and social gamesmanship that will unfold throughout the text.
Philip Dormer Stanhope Chesterfield
Principles of politeness, and of knowing the world
"Principles of Politeness, and of Knowing the World" by Chesterfield is a guidebook focused on etiquette and social conduct written in the late 18th century. The work aims to instruct young gentlemen on how to navigate society with grace and charm, detailing the qualities necessary to be well-received in various social circles. It is intended not only as a resource for personal improvement but also serves as an educational tool, particularly for the youth of the time. The opening of the work sets the stage for its comprehensive examination of manners, emphasizing the importance of modesty, good-breeding, and a gentleman's conduct in social situations. Chesterfield begins with an exploration of modesty as a key trait for acceptance, distinguishing it from bashfulness and highlighting the value an assured demeanor holds in company. He stresses that good-breeding is not merely the absence of rudeness but an active form of respect and attentiveness, serving as a cornerstone for social interaction. Chesterfield also provides insights into the significance of maintaining proper decorum, illustrating the consequences of both good and bad manners through various examples.
Recently surfaced classics