Baldesar Castiglione writes “The Book of the Courtier” in 1506. “The Book of the Courtier” is a guide to what type of person would be an ideal courtier. A courtier is a follower, who assists leaders in making decision. According to Castiglione, a Courtier should be well educated, be skillful in many activities, never appear to be using effort, make good judgments, capable of using charm to influence others and their motives should be hidden. In order for a courtier to be skillful in many activities, he has to learn different skills very early in their life, possibly after being born.
A New York Times article titled “For the Goal-oriented Parent, A Jump-start in Toddler sport” discusses a company called Gymtrix, who offers exercise programs designed for children as early as 6 months old and extends to around 2 years old. According to this article, “There are millions of American parents worried to death that their children might fall behind somebody else’s kid.” (NYT) This idea pushes parents to try to give their children an advantage against other children by starting fitness early. Castiglione said “…he must begin early and learn the principles from the best of teachers.” (C ,242) these programs for infant are the modern “best of teachers” since they are specially designed for infants. By starting early, Parents hope to give their children traits of a Courtier, one who is skillful in sports as well as able to influence others through socializing. These infants may even by like a Courtier in the program if they appear to be the most skilled and admired by others.
