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The Rules of Civility

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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. 

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Rule No. 11

Shift not yourself in the Sight of others nor Gnaw your nails.

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Rule No. 12

Shake not the head, Feet, or Legs rowl not the Eys lift not one eyebrow higher than the other wry not the mouth, and bedew no mans face with your Spittle, by appr[oaching too nea]r him [when] you Speak.

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Rule No. 13

Kill no Vermin as Fleas, lice ticks &c in the Sight of Others, if you See any filth or thick Spittle put your foot Dexteriously upon it if it be upon the Cloths of your Companions, Put it off privately, and if it be upon your own Cloths return Thanks to him who puts it off.

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Rule No. 14

Turn not your Back to others especially in Speaking, Jog not the Table or Desk on which Another reads or writes, lean not upon any one.

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Rule No. 15

Keep your Nails clean and Short, also your Hands and Teeth Clean yet without Shewing any great Concern for them.

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Rule No. 16

Do not Puff up the Cheeks, Loll not out the tongue rub the Hands, or beard, thrust out the lips, or bite them or keep the Lips too open or too Close.

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Rule No. 17

Be no Flatterer, neither Play with any that delights not to be Play'd Withal.

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Rule No. 18

Read no Letters, Books, or Papers in Company but when there is a Necessity for the doing of it you must ask leave: come not near the Books or Writings of Another so as to read them unless desired or give your opinion of them unask'd also look not nigh when another is writing a Letter.

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Rule No. 19

Let your Countenance be pleasant but in Serious Matters Somewhat grave.

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Rule No. 20

The Gestures of the Body must be Suited to the discourse you are upon.

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