A WOMAN'S PLACE:
A woman’s place in society was believed to be in her home. The goal that they strived to achieve most of their lives was to be married. The preparation to be married was such a significant part in a woman’s life. The qualities that were looked for in a partner was the ability to sing, play an instrument, and speak a little French or Italian. The woman had to be innocent, upstanding, dutiful, and ignorant of intellectual opinion. It was normal for them to constantly take tea and wear sumptuous gowns. The rules of etiquette and the moral codes were extremely strict. In order to ensure nothing “improper” transpired, young women were chaperoned at a gathering by either their mother or another married woman. A way for a young woman to be introduced to society were through gatherings such as balls and dances. Until asked to dance, the young women were required to stay close to the chaperone. After the dance, she was immediately returned to her chaperone. Dancing with the same partner more than three times was considered forward and improper. However, to allow expression of emotion, love letters and cards were very common. These emotions contained in the letter were dictated improper if expressed outwardly.