This quote suggests that the refined and elegant behavior, often associated with courtly or royal environments such as Versailles, is highly influential and can be easily adopted or ‘caught’ by those who are exposed to it. Versailles, being the seat of royal power in France, was a place where manners, etiquette, and sophisticated behavior were highly valued and practiced. Therefore, anyone who spent time there would naturally pick up these manners.
The idea that behaviors and attitudes can be contagious is not restricted to courtly manners or the 17th century when Jean de la Bruyere lived. It’s a timeless concept that is applicable today and can be seen in various social contexts. For instance, in a professional environment, a new employee is likely to adopt the work ethic, attitudes, and behaviors prevalent in that workspace. Similarly, in a family setting, children often mirror the behaviors and values of their parents.
In terms of personal development, this quote suggests that if you want to adopt certain behaviors or attitudes, immerse yourself in environments where those behaviors are the norm. If you aspire to be more disciplined, spend time with disciplined individuals. If you want to be more positive, surround yourself with positive people. This is based on the idea that we are greatly influenced by our surroundings and the company we keep.
However, it’s essential to remember that while this ‘contagious’ effect can be beneficial, it can also work the other way. Negative behaviors and attitudes can also be ‘caught’ if you spend time in an environment where they are prevalent. Therefore, it’s crucial to be mindful of the environments we choose to immerse ourselves in and the influences we allow to shape our behavior and attitudes.
