A Proper Victorian Marriage Proposal Essay -- Victorian Era

A Proper Marriage ProposalMr. Bradley Headstone, steadfast and uncontrolled, was met with denial from his beloved. By examining the etiquette apropos of an acceptable Victorian marriage purpose, and the social rules associated with courtship, we whitethorn understand the failure of Headstones hasty attempt at love.A descent on write out, and FallingLove, and the expression of it, in the Victorian Era was characterized by strict social etiquette and idealized expectations. Courtship was fundamental to the process of minting in love, and in fact, for the upper and middle classes, it was this systematic structure that allowed for the love and union of two people to be acceptable. A member of society could not fall into a fit of passion for another, express it freely, and expect an agreeable response. There was an admirable and proper way for a man to attain a wife. In general, for Victorians, the process of falling in love by means of courtship was a pleasant process if the proper m easures of propriety were taken.Pre-Proposal MattersA gentleman, upon determining a marriage prospect, bears in mind several key features that constitute an ideal lady and wife. For the stream of matrimony to be ventured upon, an essential partner must bear these qualities- accomplished manners, be an amiable person, have an unblemished reputation, and a mind stored with virtuous principles (Lessels 25). Once this is determined and he feels love for the woman, the gentleman decides to proceed with the proposal process.The most important thing for a gentleman to do, once he has chosen a prospect, is to allow himself to reveal to the lady his character. Some menmay have all the traits of a gentleman- a handsome exterior, and well skilled ... ...ue of monetary standing also comes into play after the proposal. In the dealings of cave in the familys and the upcoming couples finances, let candor and generosity actuate you in this difficult transaction (48).The Victorians allowed even l ove to be fit(p) by strict social order and control. However, it was still idealized as a blissful and ultimate convention. If all matters of propriety were considered, and if all is executed accordingly, we go forth assume these rocks and quicksands past, the engaged couple happy, and the wedding day at hand (Humphry 110).Works CitedHill, Averyl. Averyls Attic. Averyls Attic Design, Images & Text. 16 Mar 2005. .Humphry, Mrs. Manners for Men. London Pryor Publications, 1993.Lessels, Julie. The Etiquette of Love and Courtship. Sussex Copper Beech Publishing, 1995.