Book of the Civilized Man - the awakening to etiquette in English court society.

Book of the Civilized Man by Daniel of Beccles, is believed to be the first English courtesy book (or book of manners), dating probably from the beginning of the 13th century. The book is significant because in the later Middle Ages dozens of such courtesy books were produced. Because this appears to be the first in English history, it represented a new awakening to etiquette and decorum in English court society, which occurred in the 13th century.

Some medieval words of wisdom:

• If you wish to belch, remember to look up to the ceiling.
• Do not attack your enemy while he is squatting to defecate.
• If there is something you do not want people to know, do not tell it to your wife.
• Say thank you to your host.
• Don't mount your horse in the hall.
• If visitors had already eaten, give them drink anyway.
• Loosen your reins when riding over a bridge.
• Receive gifts from great men with gratitude.
• If you are a judge, be just.
• Eating at the table of the rich, speak little.

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