The Gentleman

Find a few dictionary definitions of Gentlemen
A man of good family, breeding, or social position.
A civilized, educated, sensitive or well-mannered man
A man (used as a polite term)

How do you think the word is used in popular culture? What do we mean these days when we say someone is a “Gentleman”?
In modern times, the word "gentleman" has come to signify a distinction of position, education, and manners, not blood. “Gentlemen" have "self-respect and intellectual refinement [and] unrestrained yet delicate manners". Treating others respectfully, neither taking advantage of others nor using force, signifies gentlemen. It is also used ironically, to be inoffensive (e.g. a reporter of a riot might report a "gentleman" trying to smash a window.)

How was a gentleman defined in Victorian England? What various definitions were offered?
"Gentleman", in Victorian English, was an ambiguous term, and no set of qualities existed. Aristocrats and such were “gentlemen”, but there was also a moral aspect. Though the Latin root (gens) suggests that a notable family is key, lower-class men strove for recognition through wealth and influence. It was later established that an education at an elite school qualified a "gentleman".

What are the main characteristics associated with Gentlemen in Victorian England?
The gentleman belonged to the upper/upper-middle class in Victorian society. Attending parties and knowing what people of your class were doing was extremely important.
Etiquette was essential, and erring meant disgrace. Gentlemen must know when it was polite to smoke or drink sherry with ladies around. Improper etiquette could cause gossip.

References
Cody, David. "The Gentleman." Victorian Web. 2 June 2004. http://www.victorianweb.org/history/gentleman.html.
"Gentleman." Dictionary.com. 2009.
Tudor, Rose. “Victorian Society.” 2009. http://www.aboutbritain.com/articles/victorian-society.asp

Questions
1. Define “gentleman” as it is generally understood today.
2. How has the meaning of “gentleman” changed since Victorian England?
3. Name a vital part of Victorian gentlemanliness.