+MrBacchus18 And handkisses. And letting the lady enter first (to check if the coast is clear). No, I think for every-day use in the western world shaking hands is much more practicable - just imagine how it would look in a big office, and how much time it would take to figure out who would have to bow/ curtsey to whom, because technically speaking everyone is the same rank (unless there actually is a member of the nobility/ aristocracy in your office) even if we have different functions in the office. Do you go by age, or by how high up the 'foodchain' someone is - and should women generally curtsey to men? But I think in those rare formal occasions, like when you might be invited to a statebanquet, you still have to do it, especially if a Royal head of state is in attendance (and there are still a fair few of them around in Europe). And of course it's important for those of us engaged in historical reenactment or the theatre, even if in those cases you'll probably be taught how to do it.
+misskitty285 Ha,ha, my thinking was much more simplistic. I was thinking of all the germs we spread by being forced to shake a bunch of hands when first meeting people. So definitely no handkissing lol
That's why they generally didn't shake hands at the time - or embrace and kiss each others cheeks - unless it was in the family. And if they did they'd probably wear their gloves. But usually with the handkiss, the receiver would wear gloves, so there's not that much risk of spreading anything - also mostly it was only a gesture, not an actual kiss (esp if the woman had never been married). There usually was no running water, let alone hot water in those days, but as hygiene and medicine progressed it became less of a problem.
+MrBacchus18 - Shaking hands is a gentlemanly gesture, much like that borne of tipping one's hat (an act of courtesy rapidly entering the dusty folds of antiquity) to a lady. Both derived from when warriors were properly heeled with edged weapons, and use of the right hand in these gestures of respect and courtesy (not to mention civility!) openly showed neither was offering violence at that time. At no time is a woman required to shake hands, though she may nod her head in an abbreviated bow, whether or not wearing a dress or skirted outfit. An easy way to remember this is in recalling the old, if implicitly ribald, riddle: What does a man do standing up, that a woman does sitting down, that a dog does on 3 legs? Answer: Shake hands. (It does require knowledge of the rule that a woman may *offer* her hand to be either shaken or, preferably, kissed; seeing her manner of presentation dictates which option the gentleman should follow.) Cogito, ergo armatus sum.
+misskitty285 - In today's office environment, the mutual nod of acknowledgement has become the norm of courtesy for both men and professionally-oriented women. In the United States of America, a lettuce-picker who is not an illegal alien is of the same "rank" as anyone of nobility in Europe or elsewhere. As such, bowing to those who have no such recognized nobility status in America is a commonly recognized courtesy, not a requirement, whether it be a state banquet or a backyard barbecue. There is *no* "have to," deferential dictate. Cogito, ergo armatus sum.
Here after Meghan Markle said in an interview with Oprah that she had to curtsy for the Queen and learned how to do it right before meeting her. Why Harry didn’t let her know way ahead of time he knew she was gone have to curtsy for his grandma lol.
I used to curtsy when I was little. I am glad to have my memory refreshed! If I ever have children I would love for them to learn gestures such as this. So much pretty!
I had a coworker bowed to me. I bowed back and he told me I should curtsy since he bowed and as a joke I gave a halfhearted at best curtsy. He goes “you probably don’t even know how to.” I’m a grown man and my pride is on the line. I’m going to master this.
For British ladies, it doesn't matter which foot goes back, for commoners, it is only right foot. Also, the back is completely straight, only the head it tilted, from neck down.
Sumantra maitra also, I thought you weren’t supposed to touch the skirt and less it was long. It looks kind of silly to pull it out to the side… school girlish, less elegant
She should have at least figured out the history, her curtsy in the docu was absurd. It’s easier to fool Americans, they have no clue. It’s no different really alike saluting in the military. Showing respect, and Meghan unfortunately showed the opposite by making fun of it and to compare it with medieval times. If she would make fun of our military saluting.. Americans wouldn’t take that lightly, and Harry should know better. Any European/ American dual citizen understands its cultural misunderstanding, and in stead to get all angry, realize it’s just that. My usa husband went shopping in Europe saw nice shoes , had trouble getting the attention of sales person, he asked do you have these in my size? And no these were it. He walked out thinking how could a sales person let me leave empty handed? Me in Usa, I walk in a shop, looking around. Suddenly a sales person approaches me, taking the items I plan to buy and I’m taken aback .., In my county it would mean they think you might steal these items… … just simple cultural differences (in Europe sales people get a fixed income regardless what they sell. Plus European, will let a sales person know if they need help. In usa their salary does matter if they sell Meghan should have been more curious and it was Harry’s neglecting to support her and explain it to her, it wasn’t the rest of the family job. Sorry I’m going off subject a bit:)
@niqbaldwin9813 Seems like good exercise and practice at home. Also, if you're a guy and happen to be presenting femininely, who knows, it may look good. Guys are often limited on what is socially acceptable, and so are girls. If you want to bend your knees and feet in that way you can. It's just only proper or acceptable in specific contexts. Bowing is also similar and acceptable for guys.
Yep! This is my plan! I think it will add a smile instead of having that awkward moment when I forget and put my hand out for someone to shake and they have to say no.
So glad I'm not the only one with this idea! I actually plan to do this while in skirt moving forward, as I always hated shaking hands and the elbow thing is just dumb ahaha
Thank you so much! I'm working with a girl scout troop and one of the requirements is to learn a curtsy like girl scouts in the 1920s used. I appreciate the breakdown as well as the history.
This was not only instructive, but also fun! Plus, I always love me some linguistic bits thrown in. ;) Courtesy, of course, still has a meaning of its own.
I watched this video so I could re-learn how to curtsey, I think it's important to never forget what basic, every day respect is, and what it should be!!!
I am 74 now. I remember learning to curttsy as a young girl. I was from the South and it was something a young lady was expected to know. I always curtailed when my father introduced me to any an adult.
Hi, thank you so much for this video. I am an animator and needed some instruction and video reference for a character I am animating doing a curtsy. :-)
Thank you for this. I write fan fiction and I needed to write someone practicing to curtsy and I wanted to see if I could describe by watching but you explained it so it same across clear. Thank you :)
I’m a fan touching people the least amount possible. I’m not an effusive greeter. I do shake hands. I’m not a hugger or cheek kisser. As a man bowing would be a preferable form of greeting going forward. Besides, women look so elegant performing a proper curtsy
Thanks for the video! I learned to curtsy for dance (not ballet), and the arms are completely different for that. I am working on a Regency costume, and need to know the correct way to curtsy for a formal occasion.
You did it perfect In years past in places where you meet someone of high honor it was expected Today the young generation has never heard of this To watch you would be wise with honor comes respect In Bible days It was considered a dishonored if you didn't bow or cursty Thank you for showing us how
Fun fact: curtsying actually began on the French island of Corsica in the year 120 B.C. (or B.C.E. for those who prefer...) as a means of earning free baked goods from the baker. One walked into the bakery, performed a deep curtsy, and was rewarded with a freshly baked croissant! My what a treat!!! I miss those days.
You guys are all correct in different contexts. It can be "Our Majesty" if you are either the Queen herself referring TO herself in the royal plural, or countrymen who honor the same Queen (presumably of England if I infer correctly from your comments and the use of English to express those comments). It should be "Her Majesty" for most others who are simply referring to said queen; and "Your Majesty" if you're addressing Her Majesty directly. You are all nitpicking each other needlessly with nary a thought for point of view. ;) In the words of C.S. Lewis, "What DO they teach children in those schools these days?"
Love the shoes and thank you for this. I wasn't sure if you do put your foot back, another video I watched did not mention it. Also I didn't know to bow. This is for a child's birthday tea party but I want to be correct when greeting them. Again thank you!
So, in fencing there is a formal bow that always reminded me of a curtsy. The main difference is that, instead of remaining mostly vertical, your leading leg leans backwards as you slowly shift your weight onto your back foot. Meanwhile you bow forward at the waist, often with a flourish with the arm. This may be where a longer dress would be held, or a hat removed. Think of the posture as one step removed from kneeling on one knee.
Thank you for the video. I am a debutante coordinator in New Orleans where the debutante season is HUGE during Mardi Gras. Most of the Carnival crews have ball presentations and some of the girl's high schools also have debutante balls in the spring. I have to show girls ages 17-20 who have no concept of presentation how to formally bow and we have limited practices. THANKS!!
+SM H Williams - "Guys bow; girls curtsy." The art and science of courtesy, as a means of civilized communication, is being lost in the Communication Age of digitized discourse. As an example, "...to formally bow..." demonstrates the split infinitive. Too, a comma after "presentations" prior to embarking on the next major clause would be considered proper, written presentation. Cogito, ergo armatus sum.
Correct, the bow and the curtsy was considered relatively the same thing for quite a long while. It wouldn't be later until the gender differentials began to become more apparent. This is evident to the root of the word, courtesy, as in literally being courteous and kind to someone above yourself. Hence men were to expected to be just as courteous as women. Hilariously, a curtsy is still used to a degree by men and women as a form of insult. In a sort "Well excuse me your highness" kind of mockery. This is commonly seen in Restoration era comedies.
Marina Doshkevich In each case, the result is the same - the person performing the courtesy literally lowers themselves - but is achieved in the opposite manner. In a bow, the lower half is stationary (or mostly stationary, depending on the time period), and the upper body moves. In a curtsy, the upper body is stationary and the lower body moves. Neither elaborate towering headgear nor low-cut bodices would work with a bow! Similarly, the weird angles formed by the legs in a bow would look plain awkward in trousers. Skirts conceal the awkwardness and leave just an impression of grace.
Thank for for this!! I've always liked the idea of curtsying, but the few times I've tried it, it's turned out more similar to the wrong way than the right one, haha. I appreciate this guide a lot, especially the part about what to do with different types of skirts! That's very good to know. :)
Once a week I Facetime with my adorable granddaughter she is 7. I was looking for something fun for us to do together, I saw your video and I am sending it to her so we can practice together. We live on opposite sides of the county and I am all about being a fabulous GMA no matter how many miles are between us. Thank you! PS Last week she walked me through how to use my phone apps LOL
This is what I'd call a "quick curtsy" or perhaps "common curtsy". A truly elegant curtsy goes much deeper and includes bending at the waist. The vast majority of people nowadays have forgotten how to perform one.
Where did you get that dress? I LOVE it! I'm not praising your "how-to" video because I'm European...and danced ballet for over 12 years, so I grew up knowing how to curtsy but, you are to be lauded for keeping a "how to" video to it's point without a lot of rambling. Well done, girlfriend. Now, where did you get that dress again?
Hi! Is it okay if I use 5 seconds (no sound) of you actually curtsying in my video please. I'll put a link back to this video. I plan on releasing the video this weekend. Whatever your decision is, thank you! :)
+Heather Ferris Sure, as long as you give credit, as you said you would. Could you tell me exactly what 5 seconds you will be using? And thank you for asking for permission!
+Boyer Sisters Blog Thank you very much! I'll tell you as soon as it's up and what the time mark is. I'm using the part where you actually curtsy. 03:57 - 04:03 With no sound. You're welcome! Thank you for saying yes!
+Boyer Sisters Blog Yes. It's for my Star Trek convention video with Patrick Stewart. Someone walks by him and curtsy but the viewer can't see it and Patrick Stewart comments on it, so I'm putting your video clip over that.
I'm wearing heels with my A-line knee-length dress to my piano recital in June; any tips on how to curtsy without tripping and/or falling? I've already sprained both ankles, I don't want it to happen a second time to either one!
+Sarah Edwards Just make sure you are steady on your feet before you curtsy and you should be fine. You could also put one hand on the piano as you curtsy for support.
Dr. Scratchenstiff: "A curtsy! Make a little curtsy!" Yakko and Wakko: (Laughing) "Make a little curtsy. A curtsy! A little curtsy!" (Laughing) Dr. Scratchenstiff: "Stop it! Stop that! I'm not here to amuse you." Yakko: "Then please, stop being so funny!" (HAPLMHO)
I love this video, I've always wondered how to curtsy. But if I'm not holding my skirt, what do I do with my hands and arms? And how low is one supposed to go? I have very bad knees.
Thank you young lady! Nicely done indeed. Your lesson is even more important in light (or rather the dim light) of today's general attitude of frivolity and "fun", i.e., disrespect to elders -- not to mention hierarchy and/or nobility. You give meaning to properness and elegance ... so keenly precious when contrasted to the lackadaisical comportment of too many people lost in the, "ahh, whatever!" misunderstanding of kindness and courtesy, perhaps themselves victims of the same vicious cycle stemming from poor parenting and neglect.
... please tell me y’all are joking oh my gosh. You act as though we still live in the 1800s. And since when is not teaching kids how to curtsy “poor parenting and neglect”? You do know that neglect means depriving your child of attention and basic needs, right? We don’t live in the Victorian era anymore. There’s no real hierarchy anymore, no strict “classes”; sure, Britain has nobility, but most people don’t live in Britain and will never meet them. *People who don’t learn old-fashioned traditions aren’t “victims”, they’re just kids who have more important things to do than harp on an old era that society has swept away, like it or not. Like fighting for the right to go to school without being shot, or to get legal, safe abortions. Because in case you haven’t noticed, our problems involve dying prematurely and getting massacred, so our first priority isn’t exactly curtsying properly.* My apologies for offending your delicate sensibilities.
We still spell it curtsey in England. I went to a school talent show yesterday and I was a little disappointed that none of the young ladies curtseyed so I came here to watch you curtsey. I definitely prefer the curtsey holding the dress.
After I saw recently Kate Middleton doing this gesture, I landed here to know the name of this gesture what is called 'curtsy'. What was required to explain in thirty seconds, took full five mins- And that is a bigger artistic achievement to explain 30 secs matter for full 5 mins.
This girl is sooo cute! She's just adorable! Show of respect is something that is so badly needed in modern society, it is such a shame that manners such as this have fallen away, we are worse off for it. Thank you, young lady, for being there for those of us who wish to be somewhat more 'proper' than modern times require. Thank you! There are girls that will look up to you, and adult women too, like myself.
Just moments ago I was reading Through the Looking Glass, and Alice curtseyed to the Red Queen. I came to this video to find out what a curtsey was. Thank you for the video. By the way, do American women curtsey these days? If so, when?
+Jeong-hun Sin Dancers sometimes curtsy. Though I haven't seen anyone mention it, a curtsy has one huge advantage for women over a bow: bowing can reveal quite a lot of cleavage, even if the top isn't particularly low cut. With a curtsy, the torso is upright, and nothing is revealed. Even if someone were standing directly over you, the dip of the head would tend to offer extra concealment. :) But curtsying isn't usually done that close up.
+Dea Carey I agree, that for women, especially in that theatrical context, a curtsey might be preferable over a bow - but ultimately that's the director's choice, I think. Say it's a Shakespeare play - or any from a time where curtseying was more or less common usage - it makes sense, but if it's a modern one (say anything from Noel Coward onwards) it might seem a little out of place. And if you don't hold hands with your colleagues while bowing you can always use a hat or a fan (if you had one in the play to avoid 'malfunctions'). And curtseying also avoids your hair flying all over the place, as it would during a deep bow.
@@MaidMirawyn That makes sense. But a young woman at a concert got around the problem of bowing by simply placing her hand over the top of her chest while bowing to make sure nothing showed. However, I suppose that can be awkward if not well done or end up calling attention there instead. Still, a slight bend should work, I would think, as a happy medium.
Good info. What if someone has arthritis or fibromyalgia or bone degeneration? Is there a adapted form to the curtsy. Or would a head bow be good for situation?
I see charm school has left an impression, wishfully more young ladies wouldst attend , these mannerisms are custald for a reason, oh I miss the days of Luis court ,to see the lasses courtesy missed I had and fondly remembered brought back by your display. Bravo dear girl Bravo.
I just watched a video on how to do the plie ... I assume you meant the Victorians did the full (grande) plie? If so, wow ... that's quite the workout for the leg muscles!
I was taught (way back when I was a child) that when bowing the head during a curtsy you must keep your back as straight as a ramrod. Absolutely no forward movement of the back was allowed. That was really hard to do and if our backs moved even a smidge we got told to "Straighten that back! You are not bowing, you are curtsying! Gentlemen bow and ladies curtsy! A sloppy combination of both is not acceptable!" I don't know if that was a regionalism (central USA states) or not, but I see on news clips and videos when most ladies curtsy to royalty they bow their heads and backs while they curtsy. Is this a British vs American thing?
I don't know, but it seems odd to force the body into an unnatural position. Why not bow at the same time as curtsying? It's the female version of a bow, after all, so it makes sense to me. The only thing thing would be not to bend in an overly exaggerated way, keeping it graceful.
Maybe we should bring back bowing and curtsy, its better than shaking hands if you think about it
+MrBacchus18 And handkisses. And letting the lady enter first (to check if the coast is clear). No, I think for every-day use in the western world shaking hands is much more practicable - just imagine how it would look in a big office, and how much time it would take to figure out who would have to bow/ curtsey to whom, because technically speaking everyone is the same rank (unless there actually is a member of the nobility/ aristocracy in your office) even if we have different functions in the office. Do you go by age, or by how high up the 'foodchain' someone is - and should women generally curtsey to men? But I think in those rare formal occasions, like when you might be invited to a statebanquet, you still have to do it, especially if a Royal head of state is in attendance (and there are still a fair few of them around in Europe). And of course it's important for those of us engaged in historical reenactment or the theatre, even if in those cases you'll probably be taught how to do it.
+misskitty285
Ha,ha, my thinking was much more simplistic. I was thinking of all the germs we spread by being forced to shake a bunch of hands when first meeting people. So definitely no handkissing lol
That's why they generally didn't shake hands at the time - or embrace and kiss each others cheeks - unless it was in the family. And if they did they'd probably wear their gloves.
But usually with the handkiss, the receiver would wear gloves, so there's not that much risk of spreading anything - also mostly it was only a gesture, not an actual kiss (esp if the woman had never been married).
There usually was no running water, let alone hot water in those days, but as hygiene and medicine progressed it became less of a problem.
+MrBacchus18 - Shaking hands is a gentlemanly gesture, much like that borne of tipping one's hat (an act of courtesy rapidly entering the dusty folds of antiquity) to a lady. Both derived from when warriors were properly heeled with edged weapons, and use of the right hand in these gestures of respect and courtesy (not to mention civility!) openly showed neither was offering violence at that time.
At no time is a woman required to shake hands, though she may nod her head in an abbreviated bow, whether or not wearing a dress or skirted outfit.
An easy way to remember this is in recalling the old, if implicitly ribald, riddle: What does a man do standing up, that a woman does sitting down, that a dog does on 3 legs? Answer: Shake hands. (It does require knowledge of the rule that a woman may *offer* her hand to be either shaken or, preferably, kissed; seeing her manner of presentation dictates which option the gentleman should follow.)
Cogito, ergo armatus sum.
+misskitty285 - In today's office environment, the mutual nod of acknowledgement has become the norm of courtesy for both men and professionally-oriented women.
In the United States of America, a lettuce-picker who is not an illegal alien is of the same "rank" as anyone of nobility in Europe or elsewhere. As such, bowing to those who have no such recognized nobility status in America is a commonly recognized courtesy, not a requirement, whether it be a state banquet or a backyard barbecue. There is *no* "have to," deferential dictate.
Cogito, ergo armatus sum.
Here after Meghan Markle said in an interview with Oprah that she had to curtsy for the Queen and learned how to do it right before meeting her. Why Harry didn’t let her know way ahead of time he knew she was gone have to curtsy for his grandma lol.
same lmao watching the full interview rn
Same! 🤣
I feel like everyone knows about this. I remember learning about this when I was 8 and I’m an American male lol
Because she lied! She had instructions and handlers for everything.
dooler72 shutup
I used to curtsy when I was little. I am glad to have my memory refreshed! If I ever have children I would love for them to learn gestures such as this. So much pretty!
They may end up using it, corona 'no contact greetings'🤔
What for?
I had a coworker bowed to me. I bowed back and he told me I should curtsy since he bowed and as a joke I gave a halfhearted at best curtsy. He goes “you probably don’t even know how to.” I’m a grown man and my pride is on the line. I’m going to master this.
way to go man
Have you mastered it by now?
Men never curtsy. Manners are never meant to demean others.
For British ladies, it doesn't matter which foot goes back, for commoners, it is only right foot.
Also, the back is completely straight, only the head it tilted, from neck down.
a lot of British ladies are commoners
@@sherrilindauer9321 I think he meant Lady as in the title.
Sumantra maitra also, I thought you weren’t supposed to touch the skirt and less it was long. It looks kind of silly to pull it out to the side… school girlish, less elegant
You can just call them patricians and plebians and save yourself the trouble and strife.
This is the dumbest shit I ever seen, and there's rules to it??! 😆😆😆😆😆😆
I'm amazed she managed to stretch out a simple explanation of a curtsy into a five minute video. Impressive.
She should have at least figured out the history, her curtsy in the docu was absurd. It’s easier to fool Americans, they have no clue. It’s no different really alike saluting in the military. Showing respect, and Meghan unfortunately showed the opposite by making fun of it and to compare it with medieval times.
If she would make fun of our military saluting.. Americans wouldn’t take that lightly, and Harry should know better.
Any European/ American dual citizen understands its cultural misunderstanding, and in stead to get all angry, realize it’s just that.
My usa husband went shopping in Europe saw nice shoes , had trouble getting the attention of sales person, he asked do you have these in my size? And no these were it. He walked out thinking how could a sales person let me leave empty handed?
Me in Usa, I walk in a shop, looking around. Suddenly a sales person approaches me, taking the items I plan to buy and I’m taken aback ..,
In my county it would mean they think you might steal these items…
… just simple cultural differences (in Europe sales people get a fixed income regardless what they sell. Plus European, will let a sales person know if they need help.
In usa their salary does matter if they sell
Meghan should have been more curious and it was Harry’s neglecting to support her and explain it to her, it wasn’t the rest of the family job. Sorry I’m going off subject a bit:)
I came here confused and bewildered and left more informed… bummed I’m not allowed to curtsy but damn if I don’t want to now.😢
Cause thats not correct way. Its harder than that..
that is not curtsy at all.
@niqbaldwin9813 Seems like good exercise and practice at home.
Also, if you're a guy and happen to be presenting femininely, who knows, it may look good.
Guys are often limited on what is socially acceptable, and so are girls.
If you want to bend your knees and feet in that way you can. It's just only proper or acceptable in specific contexts.
Bowing is also similar and acceptable for guys.
Cool, while we can't handshake yet coz' of the virus.
Yep! This is my plan! I think it will add a smile instead of having that awkward moment when I forget and put my hand out for someone to shake and they have to say no.
So glad I'm not the only one with this idea! I actually plan to do this while in skirt moving forward, as I always hated shaking hands and the elbow thing is just dumb ahaha
Thank you so much! I'm working with a girl scout troop and one of the requirements is to learn a curtsy like girl scouts in the 1920s used. I appreciate the breakdown as well as the history.
This may be the tutorial Meghan watched 5 min before meeting the Queen
Loool😅
Thats why Im here, not that its been revealed she actually did it in Suits
One year later, I hate to break it to you .. sadly no😂 watch the netflix doc.😂
So true
She’s an actress. So likes to pretend that she does not know how to curtsy.
2020 be like "hey, let's revive old-fashioned greetings!"
This was not only instructive, but also fun! Plus, I always love me some linguistic bits thrown in. ;) Courtesy, of course, still has a meaning of its own.
I'm here to learn just in case I met the _Evil Queen_ at Disneyland
Ayy Afzhr ha ha ha 😂😂
lmao sameeee
Same
I am learning to bow as well
Me too XDD
Wonderful, lovely, clearly executed, and I love the demonstration of the improper curtsy!! You are a doll.
I watched this video so I could re-learn how to curtsey, I think it's important to never forget what basic, every day respect is, and what it should be!!!
I am 74 now. I remember learning to curttsy as a young girl. I was from the South and it was something a young lady was expected to know. I always curtailed when my father introduced me to any an adult.
A truly superb demonstration, presented with the utmost class and elegance. My kudos to Miss Boyer.
Well said TG. Kudos back to you.
is it possible to do this while being dressed as the yeti?
Is there any other way than being dressed as a Yeti?
Caitlin Johnson
*4 Years Ago*
That statement was abominable.
Lmao
It might be hard if you have a big foot or two.
Who's here after watching Meghan's interview with Oprah?
🤣🤣🤣 yea
Me, I wanted to know how it looked liked😂😂😂😂
But especially that harrry was showing this to Meghan, must be hilarious to watch
Lmaoooooo ME 😂😂😂
Lol me! 🤣
🙋♂️🙋♂️🙋♂️
Hi, thank you so much for this video. I am an animator and needed some instruction and video reference for a character I am animating doing a curtsy. :-)
same here
another Shay ;)
hello there.
Same
Thank you for this. I write fan fiction and I needed to write someone practicing to curtsy and I wanted to see if I could describe by watching but you explained it so it same across clear. Thank you :)
Hello fellow fan fic writer!
Who else is here after the Corona outbreak trying to learn how to do this instead of shake hands? Lol
I'm SO glad I'm not the only one. Let's bring the bow and curtsy back!
Too funny!!
Couldn't get funnier 🤣🤣🤣🤣lol
I’m a fan touching people the least amount possible. I’m not an effusive greeter. I do shake hands. I’m not a hugger or cheek kisser. As a man bowing would be a preferable form of greeting going forward. Besides, women look so elegant performing a proper curtsy
I didn’t think of that but yes
Thanks for the video! I learned to curtsy for dance (not ballet), and the arms are completely different for that. I am working on a Regency costume, and need to know the correct way to curtsy for a formal occasion.
You did it perfect
In years past in places where you meet someone of high honor it was expected
Today the young generation has never heard of this
To watch you would be wise with honor comes respect
In Bible days
It was considered a dishonored if you didn't bow or cursty
Thank you for showing us how
Brigid, you are elegant, intelligent and sophisticated.
Fun fact: curtsying actually began on the French island of Corsica in the year 120 B.C. (or B.C.E. for those who prefer...) as a means of earning free baked goods from the baker. One walked into the bakery, performed a deep curtsy, and was rewarded with a freshly baked croissant! My what a treat!!! I miss those days.
Thanks! If ever I meet Our Majesty the Queen, I'll be sure to do this.
You shouldn’t, because that’s very wrong to curtsey to a queen this way 🤔
It’s her majesty the queen, not our majesty
*o u r*
It's your majesty not her
You guys are all correct in different contexts. It can be "Our Majesty" if you are either the Queen herself referring TO herself in the royal plural, or countrymen who honor the same Queen (presumably of England if I infer correctly from your comments and the use of English to express those comments). It should be "Her Majesty" for most others who are simply referring to said queen; and "Your Majesty" if you're addressing Her Majesty directly. You are all nitpicking each other needlessly with nary a thought for point of view. ;) In the words of C.S. Lewis, "What DO they teach children in those schools these days?"
Love the shoes and thank you for this. I wasn't sure if you do put your foot back, another video I watched did not mention it. Also I didn't know to bow. This is for a child's birthday tea party but I want to be correct when greeting them. Again thank you!
This is lovely and safe. I'm going to replace shaking hands with this from now on in the post-Covid world.
Sounds like a fantastic alternative.
Same!!
This is what Meghan had to search in the car before meeting the Queen 😂
So, in fencing there is a formal bow that always reminded me of a curtsy. The main difference is that, instead of remaining mostly vertical, your leading leg leans backwards as you slowly shift your weight onto your back foot. Meanwhile you bow forward at the waist, often with a flourish with the arm. This may be where a longer dress would be held, or a hat removed. Think of the posture as one step removed from kneeling on one knee.
Thank you for the video. I am a debutante coordinator in New Orleans where the debutante season is HUGE during Mardi Gras. Most of the Carnival crews have ball presentations and some of the girl's high schools also have debutante balls in the spring. I have to show girls ages 17-20 who have no concept of presentation how to formally bow and we have limited practices.
THANKS!!
+SM H Williams - "Guys bow; girls curtsy."
The art and science of courtesy, as a means of civilized communication, is being lost in the Communication Age of digitized discourse. As an example, "...to formally bow..." demonstrates the split infinitive. Too, a comma after "presentations" prior to embarking on the next major clause would be considered proper, written presentation.
Cogito, ergo armatus sum.
I'm a dude and I don't know why I'm watching this....
I know right!
Well I was watching a Etiquette and Espionage fan MAP and this popped up soo
same w guys
Yet you are here.
I'm watching so I can properly take the piss out of somebody who was promoted at work.
Eittiquette and espionage! I read it too
How many are here from Oprah - Meghan Markle interview?
Me😁
Lolll I am
Moin
Nope I’m here from an anime fanfic
No one I hope.
Thank you so much for the in depth tutorial of "How to Curtsy"! I now know how to curtsy.
Actually the curtsy was originally done by both men and women and may actually have been started by men
Interesting.
Correct, the bow and the curtsy was considered relatively the same thing for quite a long while. It wouldn't be later until the gender differentials began to become more apparent. This is evident to the root of the word, courtesy, as in literally being courteous and kind to someone above yourself. Hence men were to expected to be just as courteous as women.
Hilariously, a curtsy is still used to a degree by men and women as a form of insult. In a sort "Well excuse me your highness" kind of mockery. This is commonly seen in Restoration era comedies.
Chase Davis There isn't much difference in the mechanism of a bow and a curtsey. But I would laugh my ass off if guy did it. It would look so bad.
Chase Davis Also, men first wore high heeled shoes... not women.. :P can you imagine? Even I don't wear heels: just platforms.. lol
Marina Doshkevich In each case, the result is the same - the person performing the courtesy literally lowers themselves - but is achieved in the opposite manner. In a bow, the lower half is stationary (or mostly stationary, depending on the time period), and the upper body moves. In a curtsy, the upper body is stationary and the lower body moves.
Neither elaborate towering headgear nor low-cut bodices would work with a bow! Similarly, the weird angles formed by the legs in a bow would look plain awkward in trousers. Skirts conceal the awkwardness and leave just an impression of grace.
Thank for for this!! I've always liked the idea of curtsying, but the few times I've tried it, it's turned out more similar to the wrong way than the right one, haha. I appreciate this guide a lot, especially the part about what to do with different types of skirts! That's very good to know. :)
うんうん、めっちゃ可愛い。
こんな文化が生まれるとかほんと素敵。日本でもやってほしいなー
Anyone here after watching the Oprah special to how to curtsy?!
That was simply beautiful! Graceful, elegant, and well-presented. Bravo!
Once a week I Facetime with my adorable granddaughter she is 7. I was looking for something fun for us to do together, I saw your video and I am sending it to her so we can practice together. We live on opposite sides of the county and I am all about being a fabulous GMA no matter how many miles are between us. Thank you! PS Last week she walked me through how to use my phone apps LOL
I curtsy every Friday in ballet.It looks beautiful.
Nice video... knowing how to properly curtsy would come in handy these days at a society of creative anachronism gathering
From where did you buy those shoes? They are awesome! So elegant!
This is what I'd call a "quick curtsy" or perhaps "common curtsy". A truly elegant curtsy goes much deeper and includes bending at the waist. The vast majority of people nowadays have forgotten how to perform one.
Where did you get that dress? I LOVE it! I'm not praising your "how-to" video because I'm European...and danced ballet for over 12 years, so I grew up knowing how to curtsy but, you are to be lauded for keeping a "how to" video to it's point without a lot of rambling. Well done, girlfriend. Now, where did you get that dress again?
Wonderful! Looked this up for a girl's pageant ... really glad to have found you. God Bless! ~Cathy
Hi! Is it okay if I use 5 seconds (no sound) of you actually curtsying in my video please. I'll put a link back to this video. I plan on releasing the video this weekend. Whatever your decision is, thank you! :)
+Heather Ferris Sure, as long as you give credit, as you said you would. Could you tell me exactly what 5 seconds you will be using? And thank you for asking for permission!
+Boyer Sisters Blog Thank you very much! I'll tell you as soon as it's up and what the time mark is. I'm using the part where you actually curtsy. 03:57 - 04:03 With no sound. You're welcome! Thank you for saying yes!
+Heather Ferris Sure thing! Also, just one last quick query: The video will be putting curtsying in a positive light, correct?
+Boyer Sisters Blog Yes. It's for my Star Trek convention video with Patrick Stewart. Someone walks by him and curtsy but the viewer can't see it and Patrick Stewart comments on it, so I'm putting your video clip over that.
+Heather Ferris Okay great!
I just read about formal courtesy and wanted to try it for myself, so thank you! However, I have a bad knee so I'm afraid I didn't do very well... 😅
I'm wearing heels with my A-line knee-length dress to my piano recital in June; any tips on how to curtsy without tripping and/or falling? I've already sprained both ankles, I don't want it to happen a second time to either one!
+Sarah Edwards Just make sure you are steady on your feet before you curtsy and you should be fine. You could also put one hand on the piano as you curtsy for support.
+Boyer Sisters Blog very presentable!:)
Wait what this was 8 years ago? How did Meghan not check this video out? I mean this is how fast I found it.. literally no excuse in the digital age .
Who else is here after the Oprah interview with Megan and Harry?
That was beautiful Brigid. Helped
my daughter so much. So elegant and graceful!
Very helpful video thanks Brigid; I am currently animating a cartoon girl who has to curtsy at the end, so it proved very useful! :)
Me at 3 AM: Done with homework, finally I can sleep!
UA-cam: You wanna see someone teach you how to curtsey?
Me: You son of a bitch I'm in.
What do you do if you have a physical issue, and you cannot curtsy? Is it alright for a woman to bow?
Dr. Scratchenstiff: "A curtsy! Make a little curtsy!"
Yakko and Wakko: (Laughing) "Make a little curtsy. A curtsy! A little curtsy!" (Laughing)
Dr. Scratchenstiff: "Stop it! Stop that! I'm not here to amuse you."
Yakko: "Then please, stop being so funny!"
(HAPLMHO)
ur weird
@@bacon.4626 That’s actually from the show The Animaniacs. I saw and heard that line from the show and I couldn’t stop laughing.
I love this video, I've always wondered how to curtsy. But if I'm not holding my skirt, what do I do with my hands and arms? And how low is one supposed to go? I have very bad knees.
Very informative! :)
Tell me tho:
When do you employ the Shallow, quick curtsy vs the Deep, slow curtsy? 🤔
You are an absolute gem! Thank you kindly for the demonstration. Also your dress is divine, I love the cut -where did you get it?
:) -d
You can use either foot but generally best form is left behind right.
Wrong... It is generally right leg behind left just as the lady said...
Thank you young lady! Nicely done indeed. Your lesson is even more important in light (or rather the dim light) of today's general attitude of frivolity and "fun", i.e., disrespect to elders -- not to mention hierarchy and/or nobility. You give meaning to properness and elegance ... so keenly precious when contrasted to the lackadaisical comportment of too many people lost in the, "ahh, whatever!" misunderstanding of kindness and courtesy, perhaps themselves victims of the same vicious cycle stemming from poor parenting and neglect.
Querencias7 Indeed, we commoners must learn to give deference to our betters!
... please tell me y’all are joking oh my gosh. You act as though we still live in the 1800s. And since when is not teaching kids how to curtsy “poor parenting and neglect”? You do know that neglect means depriving your child of attention and basic needs, right? We don’t live in the Victorian era anymore. There’s no real hierarchy anymore, no strict “classes”; sure, Britain has nobility, but most people don’t live in Britain and will never meet them. *People who don’t learn old-fashioned traditions aren’t “victims”, they’re just kids who have more important things to do than harp on an old era that society has swept away, like it or not. Like fighting for the right to go to school without being shot, or to get legal, safe abortions. Because in case you haven’t noticed, our problems involve dying prematurely and getting massacred, so our first priority isn’t exactly curtsying properly.* My apologies for offending your delicate sensibilities.
We still spell it curtsey in England.
I went to a school talent show yesterday and I was a little disappointed that none of the young ladies curtseyed so I came here to watch you curtsey. I definitely prefer the curtsey holding the dress.
After I saw recently Kate Middleton doing this gesture, I landed here to know the name of this gesture what is called 'curtsy'. What was required to explain in thirty seconds, took full five mins- And that is a bigger artistic achievement to explain 30 secs matter for full 5 mins.
DO you think Meghan Markle watched this video beore visiting the Queen?
No 😂
This girl is sooo cute! She's just adorable! Show of respect is something that is so badly needed in modern society, it is such a shame that manners such as this have fallen away, we are worse off for it. Thank you, young lady, for being there for those of us who wish to be somewhat more 'proper' than modern times require. Thank you! There are girls that will look up to you, and adult women too, like myself.
I absolutely LOVE your dress!! it fits you so nicely, and it's such a lovely colour!
does the right foot have to be at the back? can i do it with my left? thank you! your curtsies are so elegant!
Thank you so much. You are so charming.
Just moments ago I was reading Through the Looking Glass, and Alice curtseyed to the Red Queen. I came to this video to find out what a curtsey was. Thank you for the video. By the way, do American women curtsey these days? If so, when?
We never curtsey as a greeting or anything like that, sometimes we will curtsey after a performance even then it's rare
+Jeong-hun Sin Dancers sometimes curtsy. Though I haven't seen anyone mention it, a curtsy has one huge advantage for women over a bow: bowing can reveal quite a lot of cleavage, even if the top isn't particularly low cut. With a curtsy, the torso is upright, and nothing is revealed.
Even if someone were standing directly over you, the dip of the head would tend to offer extra concealment. :) But curtsying isn't usually done that close up.
+Dea Carey I agree, that for women, especially in that theatrical context, a curtsey might be preferable over a bow - but ultimately that's the director's choice, I think. Say it's a Shakespeare play - or any from a time where curtseying was more or less common usage - it makes sense, but if it's a modern one (say anything from Noel Coward onwards) it might seem a little out of place. And if you don't hold hands with your colleagues while bowing you can always use a hat or a fan (if you had one in the play to avoid 'malfunctions'). And curtseying also avoids your hair flying all over the place, as it would during a deep bow.
@@MaidMirawyn That makes sense. But a young woman at a concert got around the problem of bowing by simply placing her hand over the top of her chest while bowing to make sure nothing showed. However, I suppose that can be awkward if not well done or end up calling attention there instead. Still, a slight bend should work, I would think, as a happy medium.
When should I expect to use this information?
I was taught the left knee is bent and the right knee is to touch the left calf VERY difficult, especially for Diana as she was so tall
This is probably the same video our girl Meghan was watching before meeting the queen 😭 would've been shaking in boots
Must it be the Right foot behind the Left?
I've noticed Princess Catherine curtseys Left behind Right.
Who’s here after the interview with Meghan???
Loool Oprah’s interview brought me here
Here from the Oprah Meghan interview
Damn you beat me
Yeah buddy
Looks more elegant/classy when you hold the dress.
Good info. What if someone has arthritis or fibromyalgia or bone degeneration? Is there a adapted form to the curtsy. Or would a head bow be good for situation?
Does it matter if instead of the right foot being placed behind you placing the left instead?? I don't have much balance when I do it like the video.
Not me watching this after watching Oprah’s interview with Meghan as IF I’d ever meet the queen 💀😂😂
i suffer from sweaty hands (like really sweaty, they are almost dripping 95% of time) of id love to curtsy instead of shake hands
I noticed in Downton Abby that the curtsies from the house staff are very shallow and quick compared to this. Any explanation?
I see charm school has left an impression, wishfully more young ladies wouldst attend , these mannerisms are custald for a reason, oh I miss the days of Luis court ,to see the lasses courtesy missed I had and fondly remembered brought back by your display. Bravo dear girl Bravo.
Here because I'll be attending the "Bridgerton Ball" in DC later this month ❤️
great video! excellent info.
(but are you saying difference or deference?)
The usage here is 'deference'. This young lady knows class.
Brigid, what does one do with their hands at those times when the skirt shouldn't be touched?
Pam Zanco
As a performer Ive cutsed a few times.I would just keep them at your side.
Where can I get that dress? I love it?
I just watched a video on how to do the plie ... I assume you meant the Victorians did the full (grande) plie? If so, wow ... that's quite the workout for the leg muscles!
In my playlist on UA-cam Called Anything Goes.
Where in another episode of where quarantine had brought me HAHHAAHA
I literally just watched this because I'm writing a story, but it was really nice to know how to curtsy
The interview brought me here
guys can curtsey. Want me to bow while wearing kilt?
Oh, wow. I never thought of this before lol
I wish someone showed liz truss how to curtsy
Is this only a British monarch thing or does/did it happen in US/Canada as well?
What about Lefties? Is it ok to put the left fpot behind the right, or would one be caught on the wrong foot then?
I love her dress & shoes. She looks so elegant.
I was taught (way back when I was a child) that when bowing the head during a curtsy you must keep your back as straight as a ramrod. Absolutely no forward movement of the back was allowed. That was really hard to do and if our backs moved even a smidge we got told to "Straighten that back! You are not bowing, you are curtsying! Gentlemen bow and ladies curtsy! A sloppy combination of both is not acceptable!" I don't know if that was a regionalism (central USA states) or not, but I see on news clips and videos when most ladies curtsy to royalty they bow their heads and backs while they curtsy. Is this a British vs American thing?
I don't know, but it seems odd to force the body into an unnatural position. Why not bow at the same time as curtsying? It's the female version of a bow, after all, so it makes sense to me. The only thing thing would be not to bend in an overly exaggerated way, keeping it graceful.
See, Meghan, this is easy, 5 minute video
With that specific length skirt, holding it up prevents the heel from grabbing the hem and keeping you from falling on your face.