what is the purpose of cotillion

Cotillion is a term that has meant different things throughout history and across cultures. In the United States, cotillion is a series of classes that offer instruction in dancing, manners, deportment, and other social graces. The main purpose of a cotillion is to teach respectful manners to young people so they can go out into society and thrive. Cotillion classes are typically a season of etiquette classes for middle-school aged children that ends with a final dinner-dance where they get to show off what they’ve learned. The classes frequently feature mock teas, lunches, and other social events, where the students are expected to practice their skills with each other and with instructors. What is taught can vary widely, from how to dress for all occasions to how to handle themselves in a wide variety of situations. Cotillions have historically been held to introduce debutantes and celebrate prominent members of society.