Throughout history, people have understood a basic sense of kindness and consideration. Courteous manners are always appreciated. Proper behavior is suitable for everyone regardless of age, income, or situation in life. Good character never goes out of style.

Probably the best example of polite society was typified during the Regency Period in England. Officially spanning the years from 1811 to 1820, this period followed the American and French Revolutions, and occurring before the Victorian Age. Everyone dressed in the best of taste, and strict codes of etiquette and conduct were followed.

The works of Jane Austen are wonderfully accurate views into the life and times of the Regency era. Writing about a society that she knew well, and often using real people as models for her characters, Austen provides a complete picture of the ways of English gentlefolk.

Jane Austen (1775‑1817) was the youngest in her family. Jane never married but she was interested in everything and everybody. She had a quick mind and colorful imagination. Austen makes commonplace everyday events interesting through rich description, well‑developed characters, and sparkling wit.

Books

Jane Austen wrote six novels: “Pride and Prejudice,” “Persuasion,” “Northanger Abbey,” “Sense and Sensibility,” “Emma,” and “Mansfield Park.” While all of her books are classics, “Pride and Prejudice” is one of the most famous novels in the English language. It tells the story of Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy and literature’s best‑loved heroine, Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Mr. Darcy is filled with pride and Lizzy is blinded by prejudice. Upon overcoming these faults, they discover their mutual attraction.

Movies

There are some excellent film versions of Jane Austen’s books. My favorite is “Pride and Prejudice,” the six‑part miniseries produced by the BBC and A&E in 1996. It is the most faithful adaptation of the characters and plot and the most authentic representation of the period, costumes, language and mannerisms. With its gorgeous scenery and superb acting, one can watch this film over and over again without tiring of it. It’s not just a chick flick, either. “Pride and Prejudice” is my husband’s favorite book (after “The Lord of the Rings”) and surprisingly, even our pre‑teen and teenage sons became enthralled as the movie unfolded. I like the way it demonstrates how men should treat women with respect.

The 2005 movie adaptation of “Pride and Prejudice” starring Keira Knightley is also faithful to Jane Austen’s vision, but in a completely different way. Director Joe Wright said, “I tried to find the cinematic equivalent for Jane Austen’s prose.” As a result, this movie concentrates on visual imagery. At only two hours in length, the plot moves too quickly and you don’t grow to care about the characters. Also, Mr. Darcy didn’t seem arrogant enough and Mr. Bennet was a most uninspired performance by Donald Sutherland.

Did You Know¼? A Scottsdale‑based organization called “We Make History” seeks to provide wholesome interactive social opportunities for couples and families that are conducive to character development and polishing one’s manners. In particular, “We Make History” is dedicated to keeping alive the elegant tradition of the Grand Ball, complete with its atmosphere of gentility and civility. These balls provide an environment where a level of grace and respect are expected and exercised at a much higher level than the current culture. “We Make History” holds several historic balls every year. Find out more at http://www.wemakehistory.com.

Web sites

http://www.wemakehistory.com/Fashion/Regency/Regency.htm (Regency Era Primer.)

http://www.erasofelegance.com/history/regency.html (Eras of Elegance Regency page.)

http://www.pemberley.com (All about Jane Austen and her works.)

http://toniaizu.home.netcom.com/d03.html (Comprehensive Regency page.)

http://www.jasna.org (Jane Austen Society of North America.)

http://www.janeausten.co.uk (The Jane Austen Centre.)

Make a silhouette (A popular Regency pastime) ‑ Hang a large piece of white paper on the wall in a dark room. Have someone sit sideways in front of the paper. Shine a bright desk lamp at the person to create a shadow of their profile on the paper. The closer you set the lamp to the person, the smaller and more defined the silhouette will be. Draw an outline of the person’s head, neck, and shoulders.