Published in 2011, Rules of Civility is American author Amor Towles’ acclaimed debut novel set at the end of the 1930s during The Great Depression. The narrative follows spunky roommates Katey Kontent and Evelyn Ross as they make their way up the social ladder in New York society, exploring themes of identity, class struggle, love, betrayal, choice, friendship, and wants versus needs in noirish prose.

Rules of Civility by Amor Towles captures readers with its elegant prose and vivid depiction of 1930s New York. Praise centers on its richly drawn characters and atmospheric setting, while criticisms note occasional lapses in plot momentum. Overall, it stands out for its stylish storytelling and transportive quality.

Fans of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter will relish Rules of Civility by Amor Towles. This novel appeals to readers who enjoy richly detailed historical fiction, vivid 1930s New York City settings, and intricate tales of ambition, love, and social dynamics.

Nostalgic / Contemplative / Bittersweet / Emotional / Romantic

Amor Towles

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Rules of Civility  and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Rules of Civility  Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Preface

Rules of Civility  Preface Summary & Analysis

Part 1: “Wintertime”

Part 1, Chapters 1-4

Rules of Civility  Part 1, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Springtime”

Part 2, Chapters 5-7

Rules of Civility  Part 2, Chapters 5-7 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 8-11

Rules of Civility  Part 2, Chapters 8-11 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Summertime”

Part 3, Chapters 12-14

Rules of Civility  Part 3, Chapters 12-14 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 15-17

Rules of Civility  Part 3, Chapters 15-17 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 18-19

Rules of Civility  Part 3, Chapters 18-19 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Fall”

Part 4, Chapters 20-23

Rules of Civility  Part 4, Chapters 20-23 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapter 24-Epilogue 

Rules of Civility  Part 4, Chapter 24-Epilogue  Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Rules of Civility  Character Analysis

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Themes

Rules of Civility  Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Rules of Civility  Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Rules of Civility  Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Rules of Civility  Essay Topics

Rules of Civility

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Rules of Civility ?

Reading Age

Book Details