Bow and Curtsey
Many people follow what they see on films or programs as 'the right way' to bow, or curtsey, however these are normally just adaptations of gestures used for generations, to actually insult the (what to call them?) 'bowee'(?) [person being bowed to]
Steps
Bowing
- Do a half bow, from the waist. This is the method used by courtiers or equals.
- To be polite (i): whilst bowing, the lead leg should be slightly in front of the body, the arm corresponding to the lead leg should be folded across the waist, and the other arm held across the back, your palm facing outward.
- To be polite (ii): as above, but hands should be clasped behind the back.
- To be impolite: whilst bowing, the legs may be however the 'bower' sees fit, though retaining some politeness increases the insult. Either arm may be brought across the waist, or neither. the other arm should be extended and the palm facing the 'bowee'. Let much arm-twirling commence as you see fit.
- Do a full bow, normally to the floor, though the depth of the bow normally shows the depth of respect or gratitude to the 'bowee'.
- To be polite: stand, the lead food should be slightly in front. this foot should not move, except for the heel to rise. Either clasp the hands behind the back, or in front, at the waist. they must be clasped. as you move into a crouch, the back should remain straight and the rear foot move back a half-pace as you bend down. You may stop at any height, with your hands clasped behind the back. However, if your hands are clasped in front of you, bend all the way, until your clasped hands are resting on your forward knee, your rear knee is on the floor and your chest or forehead is rested on your hands.
Curtseying
- Curtsey politely. Stand, with your lead food in front, legs slightly overlapped.
- Have your hands clasped behind the back, in front of the skirt or one folded across the waist. Bend at the knees, your back straight (you may need to adjust your legs for this). For added politeness, incline or bow the head.
- Perform an impolite curtsey. This is as above, but lift your skirt, or leave your arms at your sides. Either way indicates you believe the person to whom you are curtsying is 'cheap', or someone of little honor or sexually immoral.
Tips
- The length of time you remain bowed also pays a part. The longer you remain bowed, the more respect you are seen to be paying.
- Learn one of these, and use that one primarily until you are used to the concepts. Then come back and learn another.
- Don't try curtsy if you are not female, or playing a female part in a dance or pantomime; likewise women should not bow, unless dancing, or playing a male part in something. However, a woman bowing will be better received than a man curtseying.
Warnings
- Some of these can cause pain in the lower back, hips or knees. they should only be attempted if you are certain you will not harm yourself. please do not force yourself into a fully crouched bow unless you are sure you can stand after it.
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