Adolph von Knigge
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Adolph Franz Friedrich Ludwig Freiherr Knigge (October 16, 1752 - May 6, 1796) was a German writer and Freemason. He co-founded the Illuminati together with Adam Weishaupt.
Knigge was born in Bredenbeck, Hannover. He was allegedly initiated into Freemasonry in 1772 in Kassel.
In Germany, Knigge is best remembered for his book "Über den Umgang mit Menschen" ("On Human Relations"), a treatise on the fundamental principles of human relations that has the reputation of being the authoritative guide to behaviour, politeness and etiquette. The work is in fact more of a philosophical treatise on the basis of human relations than a how-to guide to etiquette. Nevertheless, the German term "Knigge" has come to mean "good manners".
The Freiherr von Knigge died in Bremen.
Notes
Template:German title Freiherr
Works
- "On the Jesuits, Freemasons, and Rosicrucians", 1781
- "Essay on Freemasonry", 1784
- "Contribution towards the latest history of the Order of Freemasons", 1786
- "Philo's final Declaration", 1788
- "Über den Umgang mit Menschen" ("On Human Relations"), 1788de:Adolph Freiherr Knigge