Because life was collective, it was intensely sociable and dependent on etiquette, hence the emphasis on courteous conduct and clean fingernails.
The quote reflects the social dynamics of life in the 14th century, highlighting the importance of community and interpersonal relationships. People lived in closely-knit societies where interactions were frequent, making social etiquette essential for smooth coexistence. Norms of behavior dictated that individuals conduct themselves with courtesy, underscoring the value placed on harmonious relationships during that period.
In this context, even small details, such as maintaining clean fingernails, became significant indicators of a person’s social standing and respectability. The emphasis on appearance and manners illustrates how essential social cohesion was, where the collective well-being relied on individual contributions to the group’s decorum and etiquette.
