Hudibras.
Hudibras… with Notes by the Rev. Treadway Russel Nash, D.D. A new edition…
London: John Murray, 1835.
Two volumes, octavo, extra-illustrated with 71 plates by Hogarth and others (inlaid to size or pasted down); in contemporary dark green pebble grain morocco gilt, all edges gilt.
Extra-illustrated with 71 additional plates
A handsome and extensively extra-illustrated copy of Butler's famous mock epic, in fine condition. This edition begins with a short preface describing the work of Nash, whose life of Butler and voluminous notes on Hudibras are reproduced here. Nash (1725-1811) was a clergyman who spent his time in historical research rather than preaching to his parishioners. He wrote a definitive work on the history of Worcestershire, where he lived, and the fact that Butler was born in the same county induced him to do this edition of Butler, which DNB describes as "splendid" and "entertaining".
A handsome and extensively extra-illustrated copy of Butler's famous mock epic, in fine condition. This edition begins with a short preface describing the work of Nash, whose life of Butler and voluminous notes on Hudibras are reproduced here. Nash (1725-1811) was a clergyman who spent his time in historical research rather than preaching to his parishioners. He wrote a definitive work on the history of Worcestershire, where he lived, and the fact that Butler was born in the same county induced him to do this edition of Butler, which DNB describes as "splendid" and "entertaining".
Butler's picaresque satire, a classic of English burlesque poetry, was written during the English Civil War, merging mock-heroic elements with sharp social commentary. The narrative follows Sir Hudibras, a Presbyterian knight depicted in the quixotic tradition, who struggles with the conflict between his notions of chivalry and the conflicts surrounding him. Accompanied by his squire, Ralpho he sets out on a misguided quest to reform society's threats to his moral ideals. The adventures often lead to comical encounters with townsfolk engaged in activities he deems un-Christian, such as dancing and bearbaiting.
The additional illustrations that have been added to this attractive copy include many portraits selected to accompany the text at appropriate points. The smaller prints have been inlaid to match the size of the text, a carefully done piece of work that makes this an exceptional copy.
Lowndes, I, 336.
Condition Report: A very fine fresh and clean copy.
Price (AUD): $2,100.00
US$1,456.69 Other currencies