Susanna Calkins, Author
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A few 17th century proverbs for the new year...

1/3/2013

5 Comments

 
Picture
The beau's academy, 1699 Wing / 2854:35
In honor of the new year, I thought I'd offer some words of wisdom from the late 17th century. Granted, these words came from Edward Phillips, The beau's academy, or, The modern and genteel way of wooing and complementing after the most courtly manner (1699).

So basically a book on how to be witty with the ladies.

 I selected a few of Phillips' -er- wisest statements and accompanying commentary (although a few are a tad hard to understand). 

On prudent spending:

He that spends beyond his ability,
may hang himself with great agility.
For he is lighter than he was by many a pound.
(I have to say, this is one of Phillips' more sensical statements!)

On the perils of whispering sweet nothings:


Good words cost nothing.
Unless it be love verses, for some men do pay.

On fighting:

He that cannot fight let him run.
Tis a notable piece of Machiavelian policy.
(I'm envisioning some poor battle-shocked Redcoats being relieved of their weapons and released to the elements....Machiavelian indeed!)

On cooking:


Better no pies, than pies made with scabby hands.
(um, definitely one to keep in mind!)

He's an ill cook that licks not his own fingers.  (Methinks Tom Colicchio would concur!!!)

On being a good provider:


Good at meat, good at work.
Therefore, 'tis the best way always to eat stoutly in the presence of women.
(Got that, men?)


...and a few I can't easily categorize, but which sound a little naughty:


Of idleness, comes no goodness.
For that is the reason so many maids have the green sickness.

(The "green sickness" [chlorosis or hypochromic anemia] was once considered "pecuilar to virgins." So being idle won't do anyone any good!)

Hungry dogs love dirty puddings.

There's many a man hath lost his nose by verifying this proverb. (I'll let someone else interpret this one!)

Just a little something to ponder!!!


5 Comments
Matt
1/3/2013 12:48:54 pm

Fun! "Of idleness, comes no goodness" reminds me of a similar sentiment from the 20th century in Billy Joel's "only the good die young." Sadly, I've heard worse arguments made in the pursuit of a date!

Reply
susie link
1/5/2013 09:30:23 am

ha!!!

Reply
www.clickintobusiness.com link
4/23/2013 05:42:09 pm

The 17th century proverb that you given are very interesting and informative. The influence of proverbs can be seen be seen in most of your novels and people love that style of writing. Thank you for sharing this wonderful information to the world.

Reply
missvi link
9/5/2013 04:37:39 pm

A little off-topic but just wanted to say I liked the layout of the site

Reply
Pass bee Media Online digital tickets link
3/14/2014 03:11:14 pm

The actual 17th century adage which you offered are intriguing and also helpful. The actual affect connected with proverbs is seen make sure practically in most of one's books and the ones really like in which style of producing. Many thanks for giving that fantastic facts on the earth.

Reply



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    Susanna Calkins

    Historian. Mystery writer. Researcher. Teacher.  Occasional blogger.

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  • Home
  • Lucy Campion Mysteries
    • A Murder at Rosamund's Gate
    • From the Charred Remains
    • The Masque of a Murderer
    • A Death Along the River Fleet
    • The Sign of the Gallows
    • The Cry of the Hangman
    • Death Among the Ruins
  • The Speakeasy Murders
    • Murder Knocks Twice
    • The Fate of a Flapper
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