“The Book of Household Management”

Isabella Beeton is the author of “The Book of Household Management”. This book’s sales came in second only to the Bible and were published after her death by her husband. Isabella was the mistress of her home and held the title “the commander of the army”. Considering her self an expert on the management of a home, Isabella wanted to help middleclass wives understand the necessary technique for success. She therefore wrote down instructions for each job. You have heard the saying “a way to a man’s heart is his stomach” well in Isabella’s case; she wanted to make sure the man came home for the food instead of elsewhere.

To me the instruction manual was no more than the idea of the self help books on the market, today. I am certain that Isabella would have received credit for her contributions. I will elaborate on three duties within her book.

(1) In any position, work or home, there must be someone in charge of the operation. I call my self the CEO and Isabella used the military position of “Commander of an Army”. I must be willing to be an example for others therefore earning respect through my work and reputation. At the end of the day, a leader has been established. “Her spirit will be seen through the whole establishment; and just in proportion as she performs her duties intelligently and thoroughly, so will domestics follow in her path” (574).
(2) As an employer, it is my obligation to be time conscience. I must be timely in all aspect of my job. Also, I should arrive at my job before my employees so I can evaluate the workload for that day, staffing, and any necessary adjustment needed to succeed. By establishing this routine, my employees will more than likely value the company time and know what is expected. It has been said “you lead by example”. “When a mistress is an early riser, it is almost certain that her house will be orderly and well-managed…On the contrary, if she remains in bed till a late hour, then the domestic will surely become sluggards” (574).
(3) There is a limit to the bond of friendship that can be form in an office environment. As the CEO, I must respect my coworkers and employees privacy. No information beyond work should be discussed in the office and if the lines are cross, that information must be kept between the individuals involved. When friendships are form within the workplace, make sure no special favor are required by both parties. “Friendships should not be hastily formed…to every new-comer….The friendship of such persons is without attachment and their love without affection or even preference” (574).


Isabella Beeton, a devoted home maker had no ideas towards fighting for women rights where as Caroline Norton wanted laws changed to benefit women. They were both part of the Victorian era in which social divisions for equality of women begun.