John Donne on self-homicide, 1644
Similar Sale History
View More Items in Books, Magazines & PapersRelated Books, Magazines & Papers
More Items in Books, Magazines & Papers
View MoreRecommended Collectibles
View MoreItem Details
Description
Author: Donne, John
Title: Βιαθανατος. A Declaration of the Paradoxe, or Thesis, That Selfe-Homicide Is Not So Naturally Sinne, That It May Never Be Otherwise
Place Published: London
Publisher:Printed by John Dawson
Date Published: [c.1644-1647]
Description:
[20], 192, 191-218 pp. (4to) 18.4x13.8 cm (7¼x5½"), period blind-ruled sheep, with repairs and new red leather spine label stamped in gilt. First Edition, first issue.
The first issue, without date on title page. Published posthumously by his son, likely against the elder's wishes. Donne explores the idea that suicide might be excusable under some circumstances, an extraordinarily controversial position even today, let alone then. Provenance: Christie's 1998, Haskell F. Norman Library of Science and Medicine Part II, Lot 418; armorial bookplates of The Hon. Brigadier Cholmondeley and Sir William Constable; signature of J. Jortin. Occasional early marginal pencil marks for emphasis by a former owner. Norman 650; Pforzheimer 292; ESTC R13744; Wing D1858.
Condition
Buyer's Premium
- 30%