American Golf and the Development of Civility: American Golf and the Development of Civility: Rituals of Etiquette in the World of Golf - Softcover

Varner, Monica K.; David Knottnerus, J.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 3838385470 ISBN 13: 9783838385471

Publisher: LAP LAMBERT Academic Publishing, 2010

Synopsis

This investigation examines the origins of American golf between 1894 and 1920 and the way various rituals of civility were expressed in this newly emerging recreational pursuit. By employing formal content analysis of numerous texts, historical sources, and qualitative forms of evidence, and Structural Ritualization Theory to analyze this historical phenomenon, the research demonstrates that social characteristics of etiquette found in European noble pastimes were also present in the American game of golf. These qualities which dictated a civilized code of conduct and etiquette that included self constraint, courteousness, proper decorum, compliance, and honorable behavior, distinguished the upper class from the lower classes and designated the game of golf for the upper class while discouraging the lower classes from participating in the pastime. The manifestation of civilized themes in the Americanized version of golf that arose in this time period was clearly marked by an internal class tension generated by the demands of civility, democratic imagery and rhetoric, and social exclusion and elitism.

About this title

About the Author

Monica K. Varner, Associate Professor of Sociology, Rogers State University. She has conducted scholarly research in the areas of ritual dynamics and youth risk behavior. J. David Knottnerus, Professor of Sociology, Oklahoma State University. He has conducted scholarly research in the areas of ritual dynamics, social theory and social psychology.

Edition details

• Publisher: LAP LAMBERT Academic Publishing
• Publication date: 2010
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 3838385470
• ISBN 13: 9783838385471
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 172