In the past few centuries a great part of occidental customs have been greatly influenced by a well known treatise of the 500’s ( 1550 – 1555). This treatise, the “galateo” was written upon the request of Galeazzo Florimonte bishop of Sessa., from whose name the title was taken.  The Italian author, Monsignor Giovanni della Casa, aimed at writing a handbook that provided standards for social behavior in everyday living.
This book, that had great success in Italy and abroad, reveals not only behaviors that should be avoided when in company or in public, but suggests the correct guidelines of conduct to be followed.
Always keeping in mind  respect for the other as a basic rule, the book guards the readers about behaviors that can seem scornful to others ( shabby dressing ); invites readers not to deal with frivolous or too complex themes while engaging in a conversation; suggests the reader not to give out  unwanted advice; teaches table manners, how to dress; in short, it gives a complete prospective of social living.

"The elegant behavior is the consequence of a serene domination of natural inclinations…”
-Giovanni della Casa-