Bashfulness Cured: Ease and Elegance of Manner Quickly Gained

"Bashfulness Cured: Ease and Elegance of Manner Quickly Gained" by Anonymous is a self-help guide written in the early 1870s. The book aims to address the issue of bashfulness and diffidence, exploring its causes and offering practical remedies for achieving a more confident and graceful presence in social interactions. This type of publication falls within the genre of personal development and etiquette manuals. The content of the book is structured around understanding the nature of bashfulness, its various causes—including lack of education, poor dress, and health issues—and how to overcome these obstacles to achieve poise and self-assurance. The manual emphasizes the importance of self-esteem, social engagement, and personal grooming, advocating for a proactive approach to interacting with others. It also encourages readers to educate themselves on societal norms to reduce feelings of awkwardness and encourages practices such as attending dancing schools to improve one's posture and manners. Throughout, the author provides anecdotes and practical exercises to cultivate confidence, with the overarching message that manners and self-assurance significantly enhance one's social experience.