Rules of etiquette at the table

The modern rules of etiquette at the table differ from those that were adopted in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. In those days, many actions were regulated by strict rules, which adhered to the majority of cultural people. The table was dominated by tradition and aesthetics. The basis of modern rules of behavior at the table is the expediency and mutual attention of those present.

The rules of hygiene, national traditions and general aesthetics should also be taken into account by the hosts, organizers of the reception. Many moments depend on where you are going to receive guests or simply eat together. The rules of etiquette at the table differ depending on the place and status of the room in which the companions are.

So, at a family dinner, every participant, family member or guest usually knows his place. At an official reception or a banquet, guests are supposed to sit down, in one way or another pointing out the place they intended. In a cafe or restaurant, the rules of etiquette at the table do not regulate the choice of places by visitors. (True, it is customary for women to sit down in a cafe for places that have a better view, or first to choose a convenient place for themselves).

The only rule of etiquette that remains unchanged for all occasions at the table concerns utensils. The dishes should be immaculately clean. Dishes and plates must be taken from below, holding them with your thumb. Fingers touch food should not. This is also true for the other cutlery: spoons, forks, knives. These items must be held by the handle. Glasses, glasses and glasses are taken from below.

The rules of etiquette at the table require that the guests first sitting at the right hand of the host begin the meal. Usually to the right of the owner is a lady. Then the food is served in a circle. At home, the hostess usually serves food. She ensures that the guests' plates are full, cleans the dishes, and changes the dishes. The hostess serves herself last. All meals, except soup, are usually offered to guests twice.

Etiquette of behavior at the table also regulates the behavior of the guests. At the table it is customary to sit, leaning slightly forward, taking up the entire seat of a chair or stool.

During a conversation with a neighbor it is not customary to raise the voice, only the head should turn to him. The legs should be kept near the chair. Pull them out is not accepted. On the table should be only hands. The elbows should be pressed against the trunk. The invited person should not eat food on the plate and criticize the arrangement and quality of the prepared dishes. Especially uncivilized to criticize any of those present.

It is not customary to sit too long at the table. The hostess should be the first to stand up, setting an example for the rest. Men who get up from the table, according to the rules of etiquette, are supposed to bow slightly to the hostess, the neighbors on the table and sitting opposite. The chair should be put in place. It is necessary to help get up from the table ladies. To do this, the man should help the lady move the chair back and, if possible, give a hand.

This is an elementary knowledge of the behavior at the table that every person should have. Of course, if he considers himself cultured.