The Rules of Civility

Youth’s Behavior or Decency in Conversation Amongst Men by Francis Hawkins (Washington State University) George Washington wrote out a copy of the 110 Rules of Civility in his school book when he was about 14-years old.

Vote for your favorite or comment on which Rule you think is still relevant today.

These maxims originated in the late sixteenth century in France and were popularly circulated during Washington's time. This exercise, now regarded as a formative influence in the development of his character, included guidelines for behavior in pleasant company, appropriate actions in formal situations, and general courtesies.

Explore the rules as Washington copied them in the 18th century.

Rule No. 81

Be not Curious to Know the Affairs of Others neither approach those that Speak in Private.

Undertake not what you cannot Perform but be Carefull to keep your Promise.

When you deliver a matter do it without Passion & with Discretion, howev[er] mean the Person be you do it too.

When your Superiours talk to any Body hearken not neither Speak nor Laugh.

In Company of these of Higher Quality than yourself Speak not ti[l] you are ask'd a Question then Stand upright put of your Hat & Answer in few words.

In Disputes, be not So Desireous to Overcome as not to give Liberty to each one to deliver his Opinion and Submit to the Judgment of the Major Part especially if they are Judges of the Dispute.

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The Rules of Civility

Rule No. 81

Be not Curious to Know the Affairs of Others neither approach those that Speak in Private.

Rule No. 82

Undertake not what you cannot Perform but be Carefull to keep your Promise.

Rule No. 83

When you deliver a matter do it without Passion & with Discretion, howev[er] mean the Person be you do it too.

Rule No. 84

When your Superiours talk to any Body hearken not neither Speak nor Laugh.

Rule No. 85

In Company of these of Higher Quality than yourself Speak not ti[l] you are ask'd a Question then Stand upright put of your Hat & Answer in few words.

Rule No. 86

In Disputes, be not So Desireous to Overcome as not to give Liberty to each one to deliver his Opinion and Submit to the Judgment of the Major Part especially if they are Judges of the Dispute.

Rule No. 87

Let thy carriage be such as becomes a Man Grave Settled and attentive [to that which is spoken. Contra]dict not at every turn what others Say.

Rule No. 88

Be not tedious in Discourse, make not many Digressigns, nor rep[eat] often the Same manner of Discourse.

Rule No. 89

Speak not Evil of the absent for it is unjust.

Rule No. 90

Being Set at meat Scratch not neither Spit Cough or blow your Nose except there's a Necessity for it.