The Pecking Order and 25 Victorian Dinner Etiquette Rules

Entering the dining room was its own small parade. Guests did not wander in like people searching for the buffet. The host escorted the highest-ranking lady, while other couples followed according to social order. The procession made hierarchy visible before dinner even began. By the time everyone reached the table, the social map had already been drawn, and heaven help the person who walked out of order.