Interested in 19th-century romance? Author Tara Johnson, who wrote the historical romance novel All Through the Night, shares insights into the romantic rituals of the 1800s.
Understanding 19th-Century Romance
Chaperoned Conversations and Social Etiquette
If a gentleman noticed a young lady at a dance or social event, introductions were made through mutual acquaintances. The social scene was complex, often involving a communication system using parlor fans, such as:
– Fan resting on the left cheek: Not interested
– Fan resting on the right cheek: Interested
– Drawing the fan through the hand: I hate you
– Hiding the eyes behind an open fan: I love you
After introductions, a gentleman would give the lady his card. If she found his company agreeable, she would select his card from her collection at the end of the event. The next step involved the gentleman writing to the lady’s father to seek permission to court her, following specific etiquette.
Courtship Activities
Upon receiving permission, the lady would invite the gentleman to call on her. However, she had to appear as though she was granting him a favor. Typical activities included parlor games, singing, playing piano, and conversing.
Gift Giving in Courtship
According to T.S. Arthur’s Advice to Young Ladies, a respectable young woman should not accept gifts from a suitor unless it was fruit, flowers, or candy, items that were perishable and thus acceptable. The language of flowers, or floriography, was also popular. Each flower had a specific meaning, such as:
– Daffodils: New beginnings
– Daisies: Innocence
– Lilacs: First love
– Periwinkles: Tender recollection
If a relationship advanced to marriage, flowers given during courtship often were part of the bridal bouquet.
Love Letters
Love was commonly expressed through letters, especially during the Civil War. These letters allowed couples to share their deepest feelings amidst the turmoil.
Courtship During the Civil War
During the Civil War, traditions became less formal due to the urgency of the times. Many couples married hastily, valuing the connection over drawn-out courtships. In All Through the Night, characters Joshua Ivy and Cadence Piper face societal pressures and their growing feelings while working on the battlefield.
Excerpt from All Through the Night
In the novel, Joshua and Cadence grapple with societal expectations and their professional and personal duties during the war. Their story reflects the tension between duty and love during such a tumultuous time.
Conclusion
Romantic rituals have evolved, yet the essence of romance remains timeless. History shows that love adapts to circumstances, blending tradition with genuine human connection. Tara Johnson’s All Through the Night explores these themes against the backdrop of the Civil War, blending historical detail with heartfelt storytelling.
