1. Proper and Polite Behavior: The upper class placed great importance on proper etiquette, manners, and social graces. They had strict rules for social interaction, dining, conversation, and formal gatherings.
2. Social Calendar: The wealthy participated in a busy social calendar, including balls, dinners, afternoon teas, garden parties, and lavish receptions. Social events provided opportunities to maintain social status and cultivate connections.
3. Dress and Appearance: Clothing played a crucial role in Victorian society. The rich often had elaborate wardrobes with different outfits for various occasions, demonstrating their wealth and status.
4. Conversational Skills: Intelligent conversation and well-spoken manners were highly valued. Victorians engaged in intellectual discussions and literary pursuits to showcase their knowledge and refinement.
5. Leisure Activities: The wealthy engaged in a variety of leisure activities, including hunting, horse riding, sailing, art collecting, and patronage of the arts.
Role of Women:
- Domesticity: The Victorian ideal for women was to be focused on the domestic sphere. Rich women were expected to manage the household, raise their children, and support their husbands' careers.
- Education: Although opportunities were limited, wealthy families made efforts to educate their daughters in proper etiquette and accomplishments, such as music, art, and literature.
Philanthropy and Social Responsibility:
- Civic Involvement: Many Victorians believed in "noblesse oblige" (the duty of the privileged to help the less fortunate). They engaged in charitable activities and founded institutions to alleviate social problems.
- Support for Causes: The wealthy supported causes such as education for the working class, women's suffrage, and social welfare initiatives.
Moral Values:
- Morality and Religion: Victorian society emphasized morality, with strong adherence to Christian values and a strict moral code. This included avoiding behaviors deemed immoral or scandalous, such as gambling, excessive drinking, and premarital sex.
- Work Ethic: The upper class held a strong belief in hard work, regardless of their wealth. They were often involved in business, industry, and public service.
While these were prevailing norms, there were certainly exceptions and variations among individuals in Victorian society.