As the middle class took shape in England and other European countries, the second meaning of the term “gentleman”, not related to ancestry, became more common. In the 19th century, a set of rules for gentlemen was formed – a code to be strictly observed, at first unwritten, but then immortalized in books and on the pages of periodicals. The Britannica of 1856, by the word “gentleman”, meant an appeal to one whose manners betray sophistication and intelligence, provided that the status of this person is “above a merchant.”
In the 20th century and in the modern world, this is mainly the appeal, as in the familiar formula “ladies and gentlemen.” Another purpose of the term is to replace the not very polite word “man” in narratives or, for example, on signs of public toilets.
And yet, the classic image of a gentleman – first of all, of course, a Briton, has not disappeared even today. Indeed, it turns out that, first of all, this word is applicable to aristocrats – due to the fact that it is in families with a long history that the traditions and standards of behavior of a gentleman are best preserved and passed on to new generations.
To be a true gentleman now is to have self-respect and “intellectual sophistication, which is expressed in manners that are casual and yet delicate” – again from the Encyclopædia Britannica, and whoever claims to be a gentleman has to follow a code of honor developed in the past century.
Remember that a woman is a woman
Despite all the technological progress, urbanism and feminism, a true gentleman remembers that he is physically superior not only to children and old women, but also to women. His muscles are still stronger, and he does not have to wear high-heeled shoes yet.
Yes, yes, I’m talking about opening doors, pushing chairs, giving coats. It’s damn nice. If a lady with a heavy shopping bag and high heels enters the bus, a true gentleman readily gives way to her.
The history of the origin of gentlemanship, one way or another, is connected with the traditions of chivalry, which arose in not the most calm and peaceful times. Despite the fact that the so-called “code of honor” is no longer in trend, its remnants and remnants of the past are reflected in our time.
The main concepts of knighthood and the league of distinguished gentlemen are very similar to each other. This is the protection of the weak, the manifestation of compassion, mercy and more. This should also include the manifestation of politeness, especially when it comes to the female half of humanity. And, of course, the words of the truth, no matter how bitter it is.
A man may have expensive things, a great car, and an appropriate speech, but they do not make him a gentleman. A gentleman is defined by how he behaves in different situations. He is distinguished by decency, good manners, elegance and ease in communication. In the office or on vacation, in a restaurant or in a gym, a gentleman always attracts interested female glances and inspires respect from male colleagues and interlocutors.
He opens doors
Only a real gentleman will open the front door and hold it for others. Such actions are aimed primarily at women, allowing them to pass first.
The gentleman will not keep you waiting. He will not allow a situation in which you will waste your precious time waiting for his appearance. In addition to politeness, such behavior on his part indicates that he values not only his own, but also other people’s time.
Walking along the street, he will move closer to the sidewalk in order to block himself at the slightest danger. Provided that the lady is cold, the gentleman expresses his readiness to leave his own comfort zone. The main thing is the comfort of the lady.
The vocabulary of a true gentleman includes phrases such as “please”, “thank you”, which once again shows his respect. Agree, it’s not that difficult. However, such words can instantly focus on your person.
Give up your seat on public transport or at the dinner table. Personal comfort does not matter when women, children or the elderly are in the immediate environment.
Tall and thin manners are of the utmost importance, especially at the dinner table. Knowledge in the use of cutlery is a clear confirmation of this. What can we say about the napkin on his lap. This, indeed, refinement and refined manners.
A gentleman will not allow himself to be rude to other people. This will not happen even with poor maintenance. The ability to restrain his emotions distinguishes him from other men.