Galateo or the Book of Manners by G. Della Casa

Galateo or the Book Of Manners by  G. Della Casa

Introduction (from the present book)

Among the world's books on social behavior the Galateo holds a unique position. Although it was written almost exactly four hundred years ago, so far from suffering the fate of most books of courtesy, it has survived the successive changes in the morals and manners of society and its maxims are as true today as when they were first written. The name Galateo, in fact, has become proverbial in Italy, where it is said of anyone whose manners are not all they should be that 'he does not know his Galateo' - non conosce il Galateo - and a polite reprimand about his behaviour may be introduced by saying Monsignor Della Casa dice - 'Monsignor Della Casa says'. This is not to say that all who so glibly make use of the author's name have themselves read his book or are even aware of Who he was. But proverbs are not lightly coined, and the fact remains that most educated Italians are familiar with the work which gave rise to this one. It has remained constantly in print throughout four centuries and a choice of several editions is available in Italian bookshops today.

Details

• Paperback, bound
• State: Very good, no notes or stamps
  
• Publishing house: Penguin Books, 1958