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The Compleat Gentleman


Although Brad Miner did not intend it, I think he may have written one of the best books on sexual purity. The Compleat Gentleman: The Modern Man's Guide to Chivalry is loaded with history, wit, and lots and lots of G.K. Chesterton quotes. He gives the modern gentleman three archetypes to aspire to: the warrior, the lover, and the monk. All of these attributes are topped off with what he calls the art of sprezzatura, which speaks more to the gentleman's conduct of life than to his character.

I think every other book that dealt with this topic (at least that I saw) gave you a list of things a gentleman should do. Always walk on the side of the sidewalk closest to the road when walking with a lady. Always precede a lady when going upstairs, and let a lady precede you going downstairs. Listen to jazz music. Learn these facts. Say these things in those situations.

Brad Miner does none of this. He shows you what a true gentleman is at heart - let the specifics work themselves out - besides, those aren't the things that make up a real gentleman.

The Compleat Gentleman may be hard to read for some. Miner assumes you know quite a bit about literature. And may I sound silly? - he uses a lot of big words, so have a dictionary ready. Anyway, this book speaks to more than just the individual. Like I said before, the principles outlined here speak to a man's entire lifestyle. This will also help me tremendously in raising boys (if I ever get boys).

The Compleat Gentleman: A

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