The key elements often include a highly stylized social setting, with complex rules of etiquette. For example, in many such stories, there are formal balls and dinners where characters' every move is dictated by social norms. There is also a focus on characters' internal struggles within this constricted social framework. And magic or the supernatural might be subtly woven into the fabric of this society, rather than being the dominant, obvious force.
Yes. 'His Dark Materials' has elements of the fantasy of manners. The different societies in the story, like the one in Lyra's world, have their own strict rules and hierarchies. 'The Once and Future King' is another. It has courtly behavior and social structures that are important to the story. Also, 'The Blue Sword' has a fantasy world where social norms and expectations play a big role in the plot and characters' development.
Sure. A story about good manners could be that in a restaurant, a person always says 'please' and 'thank you' to the waitstaff. They wait patiently for their food and don't make a fuss if there's a small delay. On the contrary, a bad manners story could be someone talking loudly on their phone in a library, disturbing others who are trying to study.
Good manners example in a story: A neighbor always offers to help carry groceries for an elderly neighbor. Bad manners example: A child throws tantrums in a store when not getting a toy immediately.
An interesting good manners story is that in some cultures, when you visit someone's home, you bring a small gift. It's a sign of respect. A bad manners story could be not knocking before entering a room. It can startle people inside.
The boy's manners in 'the boy's manners from five minute stories' could be presented in a narrative way. The story could start by introducing a situation where the boy's manners are put to the test. Then, as the story unfolds, we see how he responds. Maybe he is at a party and he is polite to the guests, listens attentively when others are speaking, and offers to help with the chores. This would be a great way to present his good manners through the story.
Such novels often deal with the subtleties of social interactions, the nuances of class distinctions, and the impact of societal conventions on individual lives. They provide a detailed portrait of the social fabric of a given time and place.
Sure. 'Emma' is widely recognized as a novel of manners as it focuses on the social norms, expectations, and interpersonal relationships in a detailed and insightful way. The characters' actions and decisions are often influenced by these manners and societal conventions.
Basically, a novel of manners depicts the social norms, interactions, and moral values of a specific group or era. It often explores how characters navigate these social expectations and the consequences of their actions within that framework.