_LESSON ON MANNERS._
FOR ADVANCED PUPILS.
LESSON 1.
=Purpose.=--To suggest the underlying principles of good manners.
=Method.=--Item to be read with or without comment, or questions to
be asked.
_The Lesson._
Some one says “True politeness consists in making every one
happy about you.” It is true that forgetfulness of self and
thoughtfulness of the comfort and happiness of others makes one’s
behavior very acceptable to others. A kind heart is undoubtedly
the foundation of good manners; but if this be so, there are
other qualities of equal importance that form a superstructure
on which good manners rest. We use the term gentleman and lady
with reference to outward appearance, but they also imply that a
person is honest and true and refined. Who would think of calling
one a gentleman if his word could not be trusted? Charles I. said
to the Commoners, “You have not only the word of a king but of a
gentleman.” Could a lady be guilty of indelicate language? Would
a real gentleman or lady ridicule the unfortunate? True courtesy
implies much more than an outside show. Even what seems a mere form
is usually founded in kindness and common sense. It is necessary
that we become familiar with these forms. We do not like to be
called odd or peculiar. We do not like to be considered ignorant
of what good and wise people have decided it proper and right to
do. We wish rather to copy the manners of the best people that
we may gain their esteem and be classed with them. If we learn
and practise good manners while we are young, when older we shall
practise them unconsciously, as they will have become a habit.
(_Questions to be used if preferred._)
What leads people to be polite?
How has some one defined true politeness?
What did Charles I. imply by his statement?
Why is it necessary to become familiar with the formalities of good
manners? Give illustration of some practice of polite society that
might be termed a formality. Enumerate the underlying principles of
good manners.