Etiquette and Mannerism

The French word etiquette is literally signifying a label first appeared in English around 1750. It is also defined, “as a code of behavior that delineates expectations for social behavior according to contemporary conventional norms within a society, social class, or group”. The etiquette is the outcome of wide range of cultural and ethnic interactions. The culture and civilization from the prehistoric period and of the present time evidently establishes its importance. The etiquettes rules governing socially acceptable norms or guide lines for ceremonies justifies in its own sophistication. Etiquette is totally dependent on culture. It sways and adopts the wide range of cultural values of a different period, presenting the norms adopted and practiced by the elite societies.

The nobles introduced such values giving sophistication among them and adopted as routine in their interaction. These interactions have spread among the noble elites and became a practice of decent societies. However, the boorish has remained segregated due to lack of knowledge, social and ethical values. The etiquette losses its sheen and dilute associated values in daily life if it is devoid of mannerism. The basic manners are exercised and practiced among common people. Ralph Waldo Emerson was an American essayist, lecturer, and a poet, who was also seen as a champion of individualism. He says, “Good manners are made up of petty sacrifices”. The word mannerism derives from, “the Italian maniera, meaning “style” or “manner”. Like the English word “style,” maniera can either be used to indicate a specific type of style (a beautiful style, an abrasive style), or maniera can be used to indicate an absolute that needs no qualification”.

The loss of sophistication reminds attitude and social behavioural pattern of life among the commoners. However, the simplicity and self esteem among the middle class and below is displaying the prominence of love and affection. It eventually establishes humility and kindness to all irrespective of status in the society. This is the typical phenomena of mannerism seen among the commoners. The comparison between the elite and the average person is distinctly displaying both etiquette and mannerism within its sanctity. The etiquette is restricted its sophistication to the elite, whereas, the mannerism is covering its magnanimity irrespective of status in the societies. Therefore, the class difference has its own telltale effects between have and have not.

Although, the etiquette plays its own tunes according to the medium in which it is exercised, yet its sophistication differentiates between its own classes too. The mannerism is remaining aesthetic within and outside the societies thereby maintaining its values for all. Here the elite and the commoner reflect their independent behavioural pattern according to social, cultural, commercial and political involvement. The human beings need a simple lifestyle yet rich in its humility and humanity. However, the elite exercises their values according to the need it serves their interest only. It defies any concern to the trivial matters and nonprofit dealings. It is centered on mutual benefit among the specific group. Thus, etiquette with a driving force of mannerism will pave the ways of brotherhood and beneficial to all types of societies.