Fan Language with the Good Ship Sappho’s Sophie Everwood*

    While the legitimacy of Victorian fan language is debated by historians, it is said that this language was passed down from woman to woman. Fan language was used as a courtship tool for women who were expected to be courteous at all times. This secret fan language was used to communicate her feelings towards one interested in her affections. Having grown up in this world of having courtship thrust upon her, Sophie decided to show us some of her signals.

4.Married-by fanning herself slowly Sophie indicates that she is married

5.Engaged- by fanning herself quickly Sophie indicates that she is engaged to be married

6.I love you so much-by looking lovingly at a suitor and fanning quickly, our dear cook expresses her fondness for another. Kaeden sits in as the “uninterested gentlemen”.

7.My heart is filled with love for you.-By opening her fan wide and placing it over her heart, Sophie again let’s another know of her affections.

8.My love for you is breaking my heart- Putting a closed fan over her heart tells another who may not return the sentiment that Sophie is head over heels for them.

Stay tuned for more Fan Language!

*we do not guarantee the historical accuracy of these signs, as most sources seems to be at odds on the specific meanings of some gestures. We suggest using body language with your fan language to communicate the correct sentiment.