Abstract

The manners of the aristocrats of England are one of the most significant labels for the kingdom of gentleman. It has been interdependent and mutually conditional with law, morality and system, deeply holds the ethical and moral concepts of the aristocratic society, helps people handle social relations properly and maintains stable life order. The most successful British classical drama series for a decade-- Downton Abbey sets in a fictional estate-- Downton Abbey in 20th century in Yorkshire. By describing all kinds of disputes caused by the family inheritance of the Lord Grantham, it shows the different attitudes of the British nobles and servants towards life in the strict system. The fastidious costumes and sceneries, rigorous dialogues and plots create a world that is true to Britain’s past. This paper will focus on four main aspects of the manners of English aristocrats: table manners, marriage customs, behavior standards and dress code depending on the scenes and details of the Downton Abbey and explore the applications of these manners in modern life.

Keywords: English aristocrats; etiquette culture; Downton Abbey

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-1

2. Literature Review-1

3. The Manners of the Aristocrats of Edwardian England-2

3.1 Table manners-2

3.2 Marriage customs-3

3.3 Code of conduct-4

3.4 Dress code-6

4. Applications of the Manners in Modern Life-8

4.1 Ways of greeting-8

4.2 Points of conversation-9

4.3 Social intercourse-10

5. Conclusion-10

Works Cited-12