THE PLAYS of Shakespeare - 9 Volume Set (8 Vol. + 1 Index)

A gorgeous 9-volume set with full tan-coloured leather covers; hand-marbled endpapers; gilt dentelles and decorations to covers and spines; and five raised bands to spines. The first 8 volumes consists of the plays themselves, "Accurately printed from the text of the corrected copies left by the late George Steevens and Edmond Malone with Mr. Malone's various readings; a selection of explanatory and historical notes, from the most eminent commentators; A History of the Stage, and a Life of Shakspeare by Alexander Chalmers." The final volume, 9, is an Index, edited by Reverand Samuel Ayscough ("An Index to the Remarkable Passages and Words Made Use of By Shakspeare; Calculated to Point Out the Different Meanings to Which the Words are Applied.") All volumes are in very good condition. Minor scuffing to leather covers. Bindings strong. The front cover of Vol. 9 is detached but present. [Our rating system: 1. Fine; 2. Near Fine; 3. Very Good; 4. Good; 5. Fair.] Size: 8vo.