The Complete Bachelor: Manners for Men

"The Complete Bachelor: Manners for Men" by Walter Germain is a guide that teaches single men how to act properly in society from the late 1800s. Recognizing that other etiquette books don't focus on bachelors, this book gives tips on things like dressing well, talking to people, and throwing parties, all to help men feel self-assured in social situations, especially in bustling New York. The writer starts by explaining the basics, such as how important it is for men to act correctly in public, which includes paying attention to their looks and behavior because these things strongly affect what people think of them. It provides precise instructions on walking with ladies, dressing for different times of the day, and behaving well in public places. The beginning teaches readers the basic rules of social behavior for bachelors, so they are ready for the more particular advice that will come later.