Etiquette is a set of rules and conventions that dictate proper behavior in social situations. It encompasses a wide range of behaviors, including manners, dress, speech, and even body language. Good etiquette is essential for building and maintaining positive relationships with others, as it helps to promote mutual respect, consideration, and understanding. Failure to follow proper etiquette can lead to misunderstandings, offense, and even social ostracism. While etiquette varies depending on cultural and social norms, the fundamental principles remain the same: treat others with respect, be considerate of their feelings, and behave in a way that reflects positively on yourself and those around you.
As someone who has always placed a premium on good manners, it pains me to see how they have fallen out of favor in modern society. While some may argue that etiquette is an outdated and unnecessary concept, I believe that it is more important than ever. By neglecting to embrace proper etiquette, we are not only failing to show respect and consideration for others, but also missing out on opportunities to build meaningful connections within our communities. Whether it's in our personal relationships, our professional lives, or even just in everyday interactions with strangers, a little bit of courtesy and decorum can go a long way towards making the world a better, more fulfilling place. So let us not forget the power of good manners and strive to bring them back into vogue in our daily lives.
In History the practice of etiquette for knights existed during the Middle Ages. It was introduced as a set of rules that governed the behavior of knights and the way they interacted with each other and with people of higher status. Etiquette was a way to regulate the often violent and volatile behavior of knights during battles and tournaments. It was also a way to distinguish them as a class of warriors who were held to a higher standard of conduct and chivalry. Etiquette for knights included rules of courtesy, honor, respect, loyalty, and bravery. Knights were expected to be skilled in combat, courteous to women and children, and to always speak the truth. Their behavior was also expected to be in line with the Christian values of charity, humility, and selflessness. As knights became more influential and their role in society expanded, etiquette became an important aspect of their training and education. This can be seen in movies such as “A Knights Tales” directed by Brian Helgeland and starring Heath Ledger as William Thatcher.
Etiquette, on the other hand, emphasizes certain behaviors that are expected in polite society. These two concepts are closely related, as they both emphasize the importance of showing respect and kindness to others. In the South, hospitality is a way of life, and it is expected for people to be gracious to each other. Polite behaviors are deeply ingrained in Southern culture, so people are expected to follow proper etiquette. For example, using a person's title and addressing them with sir or ma'am, holding doors for ladies, and offering to help others are all examples of Southern etiquette that align with the spirit of Southern hospitality. Ultimately, these customs encourage people to show respect and kindness to one another, which promotes a sense of community and fosters positive relationships.
As personal experience, while serving in the Marine Corps I was once sent to Athens, Georgia for a Hazmat certification course. I met a girl there and went on a few dates. One weekend she invited me to a BBQ that her family was hosting that weekend. I was hesitant at first, not knowing anyone else and feeling like an outsider. However, I decided to take the chance and went to the BBQ. Upon arriving, I was greeted warmly by everyone there and felt welcomed into their home. They treated me, an outsider, like one of their own family members. Was offered seconds and even a plate to take back to the hotel I was staying at. This encounter taught me about southern hospitality, how it greatly enhanced my perspective of southern hospitality, and how it creates genuine bonds between strangers. Another analogy for etiquette is religion. These are closely related as they both emphasize the importance of respect, kindness, and consideration towards others. Religious teachings often provide guidelines on proper behavior and conduct, which help individuals act in a manner that is polite and respectful towards others. Many religious customs and traditions also play a significant role in shaping and promoting good manners and etiquette. For instance, saying grace before a meal is a common custom in several religions, which emphasizes the importance.
Customs and courtesies are a fundamental part of military culture and are often viewed in a positive light to show respect and honor to those who have served or are currently serving their country. Military personnel are taught to address superiors and elders with the utmost respect, and to follow strict protocols when it comes to saluting, standing at attention, and showing general decorum. However, there are also occasions where customs and courtesies are used negatively, with ulterior motives. For example, as a newly promoted Corporal in the Marines I remember passing by a young female Private First Class who did not render the proper greeting of the day. I rendered that Marine the proper greeting and asked why she had chosen to ignore mine. She stated that every time I render the proper greeting to higher ranking males, they seem to use it has a way to continue a conversation with me. I would rather be reprimanded for not extending the appropriate greeting than be repeatedly beseeched.
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon to come across individuals who view etiquette with a negative attitude or a preconceived notion of masculinity. However, in truth, etiquette plays a significant role in building a community based on mutual respect and understanding. Proper etiquette serves as a foundation for developing meaningful and lasting connections with members of society, thereby facilitating interactions that are both cordial and productive. Admittedly, the concept of etiquette might seem outdated to some, yet it remains a crucial part of our society. By understanding and practicing proper etiquette, individuals can transform their interactions with one another. It helps to ensure that individuals can communicate effectively, positively, and respectfully, promoting inclusivity and tolerance. It is essential to appreciate the significance of etiquette in creating a society rooted in mutual respect and long-lasting connections. By prioritizing proper etiquette, we can build a community where people communicate effectively and address differences amicably. Furthermore, let us continue to strive to practice proper etiquette in our daily interactions with those around us, as we work towards creating a world founded on mutual respect and harmony.
Works Cited
Darrisaw, Michelle. “6 Qualities That Really Define Southern Hospitality.” Southern Living, Southern Living, 6 Jan. 2023, https://www.southernliving.com/culture/southern-hospitality.
Gershon, Livia. “Chivalry Was Established to Keep Thuggish, Medieval Knights in Check.” History.com, A&E Television Networks, 23 Jan. 2019, https://www.history.com/news/chivalry-knights-middle-ages.
Shruti, Shravya. “Etiquette Is Gendered and Its Burden Falls on Women.” Feminism in India, 2 Oct. 2019, https://feminisminindia.com/2019/10/03/etiquette-gendered-burden-falls-women/.