Nine-tenths of the people were Protestant. Religion was a favorite
and serious topic of discussion, even among the illiterate. On the
whole, they were more inclined to salvation by grace than to
salvation by good works. Popular reading included guides for good
manners such as "The Rich Cabinet" by Thomas Gainsford, and
"Youths Behavior" translated from the French by Francis Hawkins.
It advised not to sit with one leg on the other, but with the feet
even; not to spit on one's fingers; and not to sniffle in the
sight of others. Books for ladies such as "Delights for Ladies" by
Hugh Platt told them how to adorn themselves, tables, closets, and
distillatories with beauties, banquets, perfumes, and waters. It
taught preserving and comfit making, cooking, and housewifery.
Gervase Markham wrote advice for men in "Hobsons Horse-load of
Letters", which addressed serious negotiations, private
businesses, amorous accomplishment, wanton merriment, and the
defense of honor and reputation. "A Helpe to Discourse" by W.B.
and E.P. primed a man to meet company with suggested questions and
answers, epigrams, riddles, and jests. In Henry Peacham's "The
Compleat Gentleman" (1622), the model Cavalier is portrayed in
terms of horsemanship, tilting, sports, choice of companions,
reserved and dignified conduct, good scholarship, and
responsibility. This popular book was a guide to university, where
there was a seven year course of classroom lectures.
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