The text discusses how actions should be expressed with both hands in relation to one's emotions and intentions. It particularly addresses the expression of generosity and dignity through gestures, emphasizing using the left hand for softer expressions. Additionally, it explores the concept of modesty, particularly in women, noting that such feelings may limit physical expression and are linked to an internal rather than an external response, often resulting in a blush.
Actual Activities
Pressing should be done with a swift hand and an unrestrained movement. And just as in such cases many things have to be overturned, and both hands can serve (although never or rarely equally swift), so one must make one hand indicate the matter spoken of and the other demonstrate the things that are said about and regarding the matter. For example, if one has to express someone’s generosity and dignity of mind, the left hand should create a kind and gentle appearance around the heart of the speaker, while the other hand and arm are extended here and there, pointing out those things that the virtue of such a person was mostly concerned with.
The actions related to Shame or modesty fall particularly with women with little movement or change of posture; because the same are often overwhelmed with fear; therefore, they also work more inwardly, that is in the Spirit, than outwardly. Like fear causes concern, and therefore often also causes bewilderment, few spirits are sent to the limbs, which make great movement in the limbs, or actions. And hence it follows that people, in such cases, are easily embarrassed and confused, speaking and acting in ways that are quite uncertain and confused. Concerning shame itself, it is mostly stirred when the virtuous blood rushes up completely, causing an excessive blush in the face.