So, I keep hearing this idea go around, that waltzing was seen as scandalous in our time period because, oh faint heart, the man's hand was placed on the woman's waist. This, however, seems to be a quite old fashioned view during our time. Of course, there are differing opinions in different regions so it is impossible to make a blanket statement. Also, etiquette and morals were totally different back then, and there were strict guidelines for things such as hand placement, but waltzing seems to be a common thing in the ballroom. I am working on researching and debunking this myth. Here are a few resources I am reading from the time period:
The Fashionable Dander's Casket - 1856
Of course, The Lady's Guide to perfect gentility, in manners, dress, and conversation - 1857
Howe's Complete Ball-room Hand Book - 1858
The Art of Dancing - 1859
A Complete Practical Guide to the Art of Dancing - 1863
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