Tidbit Tuesday (Goody Two-Shoes)

Have you ever heard someone be referred to as a "goody two-shoes?"  Maybe you've used the phrase before yourself. Generally it means that someone is always willing to do whats "right" no matter what. They make an effort to be perfect in every way.

I find it fascinating to learn the history behind phrases that we use. Interestingly enough many of them are derived from nursery rhymes. "Goody Two-shoes" actually came from a story written in the 18th century called The History of Little Goody Two-Shoes.

This story is about a girl named Margery Meanwell who was so poor she only owned one shoe. One day a rich friend came along and gave her a pair of shoes. She was so delighted she ran around repeating that she had two shoes. She became known to the other children as Little Goody Two-Shoes. She eventually grows up and marries a wealthy widower and becomes a wise teacher who helps others solve conflicts peacefully. This story has a similar theme to that of Cinderella where virtue is rewarded.