Gravitas
Gravitas (Classical Latin: [ˈɡrawɪt̪aːs̠]) was one of the ancient Roman virtues[1] that denoted "seriousness".[2] It is also translated variously as weight, dignity, and importance and connotes restraint and moral rigor.[1] It also conveys a sense of responsibility and commitment to the task.[3]
This article is about the ancient Roman virtue. For other uses, see Gravitas (disambiguation).Modern concepts[edit]
In the British education system, gravitas was seen as one of the pillars of the moral formation of the English gentleman during the Victorian and Edwardian eras.[12] This partly derived from the notion of aristocratic pedigree, indicating polish, grace in manner, and dignity in outward appearance.[13] The British Empire also derived from the moral concept of imperium such that gravitas and other Roman virtues were idealized in its imperial society and in the governance of its dominion.[14] India, for instance, was ruled by men whose senses of power were imbued with Roman virtues.[14] The concept of imperium also dominated the colonial Civil Service.[14] The United Kingdom House of Commons also uses the term "bottom",[15] which is the Conservative code for gravitas.[16]
Gravitas is also used in communication, particularly in speech, where it denotes the use of emphasis in order to give certain words weight.[17] Self-monitoring questions can determine expressive behavior and affective display, which could translate to gravitas in the way one conducts oneself or speaks. Self-monitoring questions can include: am I staying neutral, hindering direction, or am I helping to contribute with my participation?[18]
