Accomplishment: the measure of eligibility

In the 1800s it was of utmost importance to be educated and possess “good breeding”. Education provided intelligence of mind, and “good breeding” provided refinement and social grace; and these in turn provided the foundation for a woman’s eligibility for marriage (if she wanted to marry a gentleman that is). However, it was her accomplishments that made her prized by her acquaintances and helped her catch the eye of an admiring gentleman. It was these that positioned her as the most valued choice for marriage because she had beauty, intelligence and talent.

A woman who possessed any, or a number of accomplishments was intriguing and alluring. She could dance at the balls hosted by wealthy neighbours; she could provide entertainment for guests after they retired to the drawing room by playing music or singing; she could entertain her parents by reading poetry; she could write a good letter and paint. She was like a nymph: mysterious in all her talents.

The accomplishments she could have possessed include any or all of those listed bellow.

• Playing the pianoforte

• Singing

• Dancing

• Writing poetry or a good letter

• Reading aloud

• Drawing

• Painting (usually with watercolour because this was seen as more feminine).

• Speaking a foreign language such as Italian.

These talents above are classical and elegant. Is it not interesting that today - though the accomplishments we possess are not seen as a reflection of our eligibility but rather as a prized talent for personal enjoyment - we still admire them greatly? How often have we admired Joan’s ability to paint or wished we could play the piano (or any other musical instrument) like Mary? We also admire those who can speak a foreign language. And I myself have often wished I could sing like those in the church choir. Strange, we are less likely to admire the ability to play first team hockey or provincial squash. Could it be that classical talent retains its allure?

Accomplishment and refinement are still very much appreciated today. A woman’s ability to paint, sing or play music still gives those who know her great joy. She is viewed as one with exceptional talent, especially if her talent is more developed than another’s. Maybe it doesn’t make her more eligible but it certainly attracts attention... because really, we have not much changed since the ladies and gentlemen of Jane Austen’s time.