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Education
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Contents |
Gentleman of Quality
A member of the aristocracy should learn at least one or more of the classic languages, such as Latin or Greek. It is absolutely necessary that he know French. In addition, he should study at least one other language, this commonly being Italian. Since most operas are written and performed in Italian, knowledge and understanding of the language will enlighten and enhance his experiences at the opera.
It is also essential that a nobleman learn Philosophy; Mathematics; the laws of the country; the customs, laws and manners of other nations; Literature; Poetry; painting; music; Dancing; Fencing; Riding and architecture.
Above all, a nobleman's obligations to his estate and the necessity of him recognizing other's woes demands he have an honest heart. Lastly, to uphold his authority and position, he must never fall a slave to any irregular passion.
Male Gentry
The education of a man of Gentry is dictated by the order of his birth. If he is born first and is to inherit his parent’s estate, then he should be raised with an education much like a nobleman’s. It is highly probably that the inheritor will rise in his position after receiving his inheritance and he must be prepared for that responsibility.
The younger sons will be engaging in some sort of profession for advancement in the world. Other than the learned professions, the younger sons will also have open to them the sea, the Army and the Exchange.
It is important to remember not to push any son into a profession he does not desire to follow, this will only discourage him and most likely set him in a position he is under qualified to fill. Likewise, young men are fanciful, they may on many occasions state a desire to fill multiple differing professions. Hence, do not jump and run out to purchase your son a uniform the moment he states a desire to join with the army, the next week he may already be of a different mind.
Woman of Quality
To ensure happiness, a woman of quality must have all her passions regulated.
To achieve the standards of her class she should learn: reading, writing, needlework, Dancing, French, Italian and Music. In reading she should have good understanding of the material she recites, so that she may give passages proper emphasis. With writing she should use proper spelling accompanied by an elegant hand. In addition to the subjects listed above, a woman of quality should have knowledge of arithmetic, geography, drawing, and moral and experimental Philosophy.
Women should always speak clear, without vulgarity. All her studies should be directed toward wisdom, goodness and modesty, so that she is generous, benevolent and sweet in temper. Remember always, woman may be a weaker vessel than her counterpart, but she is not entirely without strength and, in order to make a proper companion and keep her husband engaged, her facilities must be developed to their full capacity to best fit her station in life.
Young Lady of Second Rate
If the young lady be first born and heiress, she should receive an education equal to that of a woman of quality. In inheriting her parent’s estate, it becomes possible for her to better her class standing and rise to a lady of quality. Hence, she must be educated in a manner to prepare her for the transition. If she is a younger daughter, her education need not be so brilliant. However, she should not be neglected. Her education should include a thorough knowledge and proficiency in her mother tongue; she should be educated to write, dance, speak French and have mild proficiency in music. In addition to these and domestic cares she should have knowledge of arithmetic, drawing and geography. Like the woman of quality, all that she learns should be fitting to her life station.
