Society of Dilettanti (1732-2003)
On its surface, the Society of Dilettanti was founded around an interest in classical art. Qualification was simple. To be considered, one must simply have been to Italy and Greece, be a “young [man] of rank and fashion,” and possess an interest in the classical Italian artworks. But underneath its respectable surface, seems to have been similar to any college house party: an opportunity to get together and get drunk. The Society of Dilettanti is still active, although it is more focused on its charitable works and public service than on seeing ol’ Nigel fall-down drunk trying to copy the poses of Roman statuary.
