Using the right cutlery, holding the bowl by the stem or holding the knife in your right hand... There are so many rules of etiquette during meals that many people get confused. Although some make a lot of sense, others seem to be done just for teasing. This is the case for the no rule. rest your elbows on the table, where no one knows its true purpose.
Why is this gesture considered rude?
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First of all, it is important to understand that this rule is very old, so it has historical roots in a time when the tag and good manners were highly valued, especially among the richest.
According to some historians, this act was associated with less wealthy people, so it was avoided by the nobles to differentiate themselves from this group.
In other cultures, putting your elbows under the table was considered a gesture of affront, as tables are usually small and don't have much space for several people. So, unless you were looking for a conflict, it was good form to keep them down.
Furthermore, it is possible to find several other explanations, as your true goal will be to keep everyone's posture straight at all times. In the end, it is important to keep in mind that these norms are cultural, so they end up varying a lot according to each people.
How is this gesture seen today?
Nowadays people care less and less about some of these rules, the elbow on the table being one of them. Soon, this behavior is seen as something normal, especially when we are among friends and family.
Of course, some events may require a little more care in this regard, but they tend to be more rare or “unique”. That is, it is very unlikely that you will be scolded or seen with bad eyes because of this act.
Even so, it is important to consider the context in which it is inserted, such as people with whom you share the table, environment, etc.
