William Byrd II- The Typical Virginian Gentleman- Q: How did William Byrd II embody the mindset and traditions of an early Virginian Gentleman?

Note: the word "gentleman" had a much different meaning in the old South, not necessarily a good one While it usually conveys only a general meaning, the word "gentlemen," may be understood in a much more precise manner when applied to the Old South, especially Virginia. The word represents men of a specific mold, men of high birth and matching education - nobles, rich and powerful - and brings with it countless but often-accurate stereotypes. …

…and worst) of colonial Virginia. Even his name, taken from William the Conqueror, was an indication of his nobility. Upon his death Byrd was buried in the garden at Westover, watched over by his beloved mansion. A more appropriate place could not have been chosen. From its intricate Flemish brick layering to its riverfront doorway, the Byrd Mansion embodied in material what its master embodied in person: the highly developed, rich character of a gentleman.