The Ladies' Book of Etiquette, and Manual of Politeness: A Complete Hand Book for the Use of the Lady in Polite Society

"The Ladies' Book of Etiquette, and Manual of Politeness" by Florence Hartley is a guidebook on social conduct written in the mid-19th century. This comprehensive manual serves to instruct women on the principles of good manners and proper behavior in various social situations, as well as the expectations placed on them in polite society. The book aims to equip readers with the knowledge to navigate social interactions gracefully and respectfully. The opening portion of the book establishes a foundational philosophy of politeness, emphasizing that true courtesy arises from genuine kindness and an unselfish regard for the feelings of others. Hartley discusses various aspects of politeness, including the importance of considering others' feelings, maintaining a pleasant demeanor, and the idea that politeness is the outward expression of inner goodness. The introduction sets the tone for the book as it introduces the guiding principle, "Do unto others as you would have others do unto you," and establishes etiquette as an essential element in every social interaction, from casual conversations to formal gatherings.