An indispensable part of any proper upbringing in Regency England was the ball.

There were few past times the English gentry and aristocracy enjoyed as much as dancing. The members of the beau monde gathered often, and usually danced, in public assembly halls as well as in homes. Public balls took place just about anywhere–large buildings, special assembly halls, or even outdoors on a field, weather permitting. Balls were large, private events including hundreds of people after weeks or months of planning. However, dancing also occurred during impromptu affairs at small gatherings where they simply pushed furniture to the side and rolled up carpets.

The “big house” or “stately homes” have a drawing room or main hall where a ball may be held.

Owners of the “big house” opened their home to the gentry in their area to enjoy company, socialize, and show off their wealth. They sometimes had dinner beforehand with their closest friends, or at least, those closest to them in class and wealth. Other times, they served a sumptuous midnight supper after which dancing, flirting, and socializing resumed until the wee hours of the night. In Pride and Prejudice, when the charming newcomer, Mr. Bingley arrived, one of the first questions people ask him was when he planned to have a ball. He, obligingly, recruited help from his sister to begin preparations.

Balls brought people together

Every young lady and gentleman of means were expected to know how to dance. Families of the highest classes hired dance masters to instruct their children the art of dancing. Families who must live more economically–like Elizabeth Bennett’s–relied on parents or other adults to teach this indispensable part of living in polite society. Even officers in the military were expected to know how to dance. Many a mama brought her children of eligible age to balls in the hopes a courtship might begin, resulting in securing an eligible spouse. Oh, the bliss!