Naomi Caldwell (naohcald@mars.utm.edu) from obion224.iswt.com at 09/26/98 09:44PM
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    The idea of a "lady" or "belle," as often applied to the south, seems to presuppose a notion of distinction and rarity. This was culturally regulated and systematized by requiring separation from the common and mundane. As Dr. Zachry pointed out to start this thread, this often included racial and class distinctions with their incipient notions of honor. Out of such cultures of honor often grow violent and aggressive tendencies (see, e.g., "Culture of honor reveals a violent streak," Science News, Vol. 154:11, p 165). Perhaps the loss of the Southern Belle is the natural and positive byproduct of the changing of the south to include all of its peoples. Now that a cleaning woman may be a true lady, there are few who wish to proclaim that title by their clothing and manner.