Research Papers / 'The Victorian Era was a brilliant time' - Victorian Balls Research [3]

Prompt: write a research paper describing a ball in the victorian era.

The Victorian Era was a brilliant time in English history, where classical music was at its peak and sophistication was of upmost importance, and what could describe its heights better than with the ball? Balls were thrown to welcome in friends, family, and to show others the splendor of your estate. While there, a fine lady could even find a husband. That is, of course, if she maintains her fine appearance and is properly learned in etiquette. Upon arriving to a ball a lady must first dance with her escort, who in turn sees that she is provided with partners suitable for her social status. A dancing card shall have been provided so that suitors and fine ladies alike could see to finding a partner for every dance. While dancing, the gentlemen are always to lead in the dance. As well, if a gentleman does not dance often, it is unlikely that he will get many invitations to other balls in the future.

Proper etiquette is of upmost importance at a ball. A lady should not walk the hall unattended, nor may they exit without an escort. It is considered rude if a gentleman circles the waist of a lady without gloves, and if he does not have gloves, a handkerchief must be used. Ladies should not dine while wearing their gloves, and two pairs should be worn; one before the evening meal, and one afterward, for dancing. While leading a lady, gentlemen must offer an arm, not a hand, as holding hands was never to be done in public. If a gentleman does not offer a proper introduction before dancing, the lady should positively refuse. When the acquaintanceship ceases at the end of the night, unless the lady chooses to recognize the gentleman at a later time, it is imperative that the gentleman not make dinner plans or expect to see the lady again. The majority of dances are held after supper, so that guests are obliged to leave whenever they so choose. The series of dances usually starts with a march and then a quadrille, and then the last dance of the night is usually a march so that quests will not leave in low spirits. At a ball, etiquette is very important to the reputation of a guest.