The Etiquette and Customs of 'Calling' in Historical and Modern Times

The concept of a 'call' has a rich and fascinating history, rooted in the manners and customs of the Victorian era. A 'call' refers to a formal visit or social call made during specific hours, most commonly in the afternoon. It was a genteel activity that played a crucial role in establishing and maintaining connections and social status.

Historical Context of the 'Calling' Tradition

The tradition of 'calling' was particularly prevalent during the Victorian era. It was a formal visit made between particular hours, often in the afternoon. Visitors were expected to follow strict rules including appropriate dress, polite conversation, and leaving calling cards if the honorees were not available. This practice was a cornerstone of social etiquette and helped to reinforce one's position within society.

A 'call of ceremony' is not an actual thing but a dated phrase that refers to a courteous visit or social call performed for the sake of good or 'proper' social form—essentially like a ceremony. The phrase 'standing on ceremony' similarly denotes being overly ritualistic in mannerisms, often in a sarcastic or ironic context. In post-war English, 'an obligatory social visit' is a common description for what used to be considered a 'call of ceremony.'

Modern Context and Usage of 'Call'

While the traditional 'call' is no longer a common practice in modern times, the term has evolved to include specific usages in different contexts:

1. Qualifying Ceremony: Legal Profession

A 'call to the Bar' is a formal and ceremonial process in which lawyers are admitted into the legal profession. This ceremony is significant in the legal traditions of many countries. For instance:

Attorneys: Attorneys have to attend a ceremony when 'called to the Bar,' a term that actually refers to the ceremonial aspect of the admission process. Canadian Solicitors/Barristers: In Canada, both solicitors and barristers still use the term 'ceremonial call.' Historically, English attorneys were called to the Bar in ceremonies stretching back to the 12th century until 1880. English Barristers and Solicitors: English barristers and solicitors used to have their own ceremonial calls during their professional lives, with the solicitors' ceremony up to the First World War still considered a 'ceremonial call.'

In some industries, similar ceremonies exist for the attainment of professional statuses. For example, in the printing industry, there are ceremonial calls for the journeyman, a term denoting a skilled worker.

2. Parliamentary Procedure: The 'Call'

In the context of parliamentary procedure, the term 'call' refers to the process of summoning someone to take the floor or speak in a debate. For instance:

Parliamentary Speak: In parliamentary settings, someone who has been given the 'call' can speak on a particular topic or express an opinion during a debate. Ceremonial Debate: In older legislative and municipal meetings, the term 'call of ceremony' referred to a formal debate held on the opening day of a new term.

Conclusion

While the traditional 'calling' tradition is somewhat archaic, it still has a place in modern usage, particularly in legal and political contexts. The term 'call' retains its ceremonial significance in these fields, underscoring the importance of etiquette and formal processes in maintaining order and respect.