Peter
The etiquette of the wearing of hats in the 17th century (and I suspect
beyond) is fascinating. There is actually a file at TNA all about the claim
of one Scots family to the right to keep hats on in the presence of the
monarch (a 19th century case, I think).
Religion is not my field so I may be jumping in too rashly, but what I think
you have is a dispute that is either about status or religion or both mixed
up together. The curate (presumably Anglican, perhaps of marginal status?
low income but with aspirations to be treated like a gentleman??) thinks Mr
Parishioner should take his hat off as a sign of respect (both to the church
and to the curate). The Leet jury don't agree because (a) they think the
curate's social status is lower than that of the parishioner and/or (b) they
are extreme protestants (cf. Quakers) who don't believe in taking their hats
off to anyone.
Strangely for men keeping a hat on sent messages of social superiority
whereas at least in the 20th century women kept their heads covered in
church as a sign of modesty.
Regards
Ruth
--
No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Anti-Virus.
Version: 7.0.300 / Virus Database: 265.7.3 - Release Date: 24/01/2005
|