Abstract

The article examines the history of the term »Artigkeit« [courtesy, civility, politeness, courteousness] in the period from about 1700 to 1900. The term, which was used as a synonym for politeness or gallantry, is initially situated in the context of rhetoric and early modern behavioral doctrines. In the course of the 18th century, the term is reinterpreted and naturalized. »Artigkeit« is no longer characterized by complaisance, but by openness, frankness, and natural expression. In the long term, the concept migrates to pedagogy, where the problems that had already determined the discussion of »Artigkeit« are brought back under different auspices.