Table of Contents
Why do we write formal letters?
A formal letter is one written in a formal and ceremonious language and follows a certain stipulated format. Such letters are written for official purposes to authorities, dignitaries, colleagues, seniors, etc and not to personal contacts, friends or family.
What was the role of letters in the 1800s?
Literary rates were increasing at this time and the people used writing as a way to express themselves as they do today. Letter writing was a form of art and often times people sent their most beautiful letters to those whom they seen as most important. Letter writing was vital to the 19th Century Society.
What did people use to write in the 18th century?
Quill pens were made from birds’ wing feathers, usually geese. The number of quills required to keep an American colony writing was formidable, often numbering in the thousands for a writing master at a large school. Gum sandarac, harvested from an African tree, was used to prepare the paper to absorb ink more evenly.
How were letters addressed in the 1700s?
The person being written to was so addressed in the salutation by name in familiar letters to friends or relatives, but in formal letters of business or military, the person’s name and title, if of existence, was always included at the very bottom of the letter.
Why is the purpose of the letter or the reason of the writer for writing written at the beginning of a business letter?
According to Ricks and Gow, “The primary purposes of business letters are to inform, instruct, request, inquire, remit, order, advice, correct and to question.” The main purposes of Business Letter are; Convey Information: The basic purpose of any business letter is to convey information regarding business activities.
What is the purpose of an informal letter?
Informal letters are mainly used for personal communication. So they do not have to follow any specific pattern, format or conventions. They can be written as per the writer’s wishes and the requirement of the situation. So the letter is written in a personal fashion in casual unassuming language.
How long did it take to receive a letter in the 1800s?
It took about two weeks. By 1890 postal unions had been formed allowing mail to transit around the world to most places. The domestic rate in the US was 2¢ per ounce. For a first class letter weighing 1/2 ounce or less to Britain the union cost would be an additional 5¢.