Page 5 - Italian-American Herald - July 2024

CULTURE
often head to a nearby park to eat or meet up with friends.
Dinner is a much more relaxed atmosphere, either with family or friends. Whether it is homecooked or served in a restaurant, this is the time for Italians to savor their gastronomic choices, no matter how simple or elaborate. Of course, Sunday “dinners” at mid-day are the culmination of living well when the table setting and the company who may be invited are just as important as the dishes served. Meals for Italians are not just to feed the body but also the soul as they enjoy time with the family and invited company as well as honoring their culture and shared history.
Hosts for special events such as a party will take particular care with menu choices as well as with the table settings and decorations for the event. It is not enough that the food
is exquisite but that everything is visually pleasing as well. As you can imagine, weddings will also be carefully “curated.” This is not just a celebration of a momentous occasion but a chance to show appreciation for those in attendance who have supported the bride and groom as they prepared for this memorable day.
For visitors to Italy, you can also present a bella figura by taking the time to learn and
use some of the language. Italians are a cordial people and many of them speak English (or have some knowledge) so using a few phrases to show respect for their culture and language is much appreciated. Common phrases such as buon giorno, buona sera, per favore, grazie and prego are key phrases to learn.
Another key component to this concept of presenting oneself in the best manner is just that! Displaying le buone maniere (good manners) comes in a variety of choices in one’s daily life. An Italian mother will teach her children to behave properly in school,
to listen to the teacher and get along with classmates. They will caution their children not to be maleducato (poorly educated). The expression doesn’t refer to a lack of education but more to incivility in their actions and words.
This is a trait that applies as well to adults. One should speak politely without raising the voice or using vulgar words. One should always be on time, say please or thank you and show respect to elders and pregnant women or those with young children. When visiting churches or religious sites, women are expected to cover their shoulders while in a religious place and not to wear short dresses or shorts. Men should also be dressed in appropriate clothing and to take off hats when entering these sites.
Even an ordinary event like walking the dog is an occasion for dressing with style. | ADOBE STOCK
ITALIAN-AMERICAN HERALD
JULY2024 | ITALIANAMERICANHERALD.COM 5
Driven by the Best
Proudly presented by the Giacchino family!
The Carman Auto Group Celebrating our 51st year!
www.carmanautogroup.com
CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM 302-323-1666 | FORD 302-323-2300 | LINCOLN 302-324-4400 | FIAT ALFA ROMEO 302-323-1666