Polite Academy – a book on etiquette in the 18th century

Steff Palmer of Hampshire Record Office explains her love of a small, late 18th century book,
entitled “The Polite Academy” (HRO Ref, 83M93/65). Subtitled `School of Behaviour for Young Gentlemen and Ladies, it was intended as a foundation for Good Manners and Polite Address in Masters and Misses`. With 12 illustrations, it includes advice on how to behave in a variety of situations such as at the meal table, in company, how to stand and walk correctly and how to give the hand in the minuet.