Marriage Proposals in Italy
Proposta di matrimonio
When
a wedding proposal had arrived or was on its way the consiglio di
famiglia of the girl’s family would convene a meeting. At this
family gathering the father or paterfamilias carried absolute
autority or veto power. The paterfamilias, would hear everyone’s
point of view.
Hostile criticisms and vigorous defenses from the different ends of the
table would be launched as self-styled lawyers presented their cases and
opinions. The room temperature would rise, as would the volume of peoples'
voices. Finally, the paterfamilias would rise majestically
from his place at the head of the table. Then, conscious 
that
he was both the judge and the jury, he would in solemn manner pronounce
the verdict.
Guilty or innocent, done deal or flop, there usually were no appeals. Either the young man had a good name or he did not. And so the rejected suitor would depart empty-handed. But the man with a good reputation and sound financial position would receive as a reward for his good character the certainty of having won a prized Italian princess and bride. Now that the deal was done the stage was set for the next step—who was going to pay for everything.
