The Antebellum Period

The Antebellum Period is a touchstone of social change in the areas of ethics and morality. The period was marked by an evolution of societal expectations towards both men and women. This exhibit explores these changes through the usage of etiquette guides. These books were published with the intent to teach younger generations the proper way to act in a civilized society. Many of the books are draw their morals from Christianity. The aim was to present theology as the most potent source of virtue. Both the books directed towards men and women portrayed men as breadwinners and women as more inherently pure. These books represent an effort by religious groups to retain public morals.