Every time period has its own customs, especially when it comes to dating or romance. England had a very specific style back in its Regency era in the early 1800s. Here are 7 things to note from that era.
Cousins Were Courting Each Other
Remember the whole thing with “country cousins” back in the day in the US? Well, it’s a bit of the same concept here. The whole romantic cousin thing was acceptable because generational wealth could be kept in the family. Also, there wouldn’t be any surprises.
Age of Consent for Girls Was 12 and 14 for Boys
When it came to marriage, it was a bit different in those days. With permission, they could get married at an early teenage phase. However, they could make their own decisions at the age of 21.
Marriage Mart
Apparently, there was a whole season where different groups of privileged people actually went out looking for their brides and grooms. Sons and daughters from affluent backgrounds mingled at parties, dinners, and other social gatherings.
Engaged Couples Could Be on a First-Name Basis
Preserving the last name was such an important thing back then. That only engaged couples could be on a first-name basis. There was a certain closeness at play here.
Values Meant Something
It wasn’t just about wealth in the Regency days. The two had to be compatible to make it worth it. Was their honor, respect, dignity, understanding, and prudence? When the values matched up, it made for a more fruitful marriage.
Young Ladies Needed to Be Accomplished
This is especially the case for young women on the verge of being married. They needed to have a mix of talents ranging from good speaking skills, cooking, dancing, singing, drawing, or some activity to show a sign of dexterity and completeness.
Respectable Ladies Couldn’t Be Alone
Simply put no funny business. They needed a chaperone when courting. This was to keep her virtue and reputation in high regard.
