The Spectator, with Sketches of the Lives of the Authors

Joseph Addison [ed.]; Richard Steele [ed.]

Published by Alex Lawrie, Edinburgh, 1804

About this Item

A complete early nineteenth century eight volume set of Addison and Steele's 'The Spectator'. A complete eight volume set of Addison and Steele's periodical 'The Spectator'.The Spectator was a daily publication founded by Joseph Addison and Richard Steele in England, originally running from 1711 to 1712, and collected into seven volumes. The paper was revived for six months in 1714, forming the eighth volume. The 'Spectator' became a major venue for the spread of Enlightenment ideas, and was one of the first publications to appeal directly to a female readership. Addison estimated that during its initial run, about a tenth of London's population were readers of the publication.With faint pencil inscriptions to the head of the title pages of the first two volumes. In full tree calf bindings, with gilt detailing from back strips. Significant rubbing to back strips, most concentrated to rear joint of volume VI, and to tails of volumes I and III. Lacking volume number label to number VI. Head of joints of volumes I and III starting and firmly held, with head of volume VI joint starting, and firmly held. Internally, firmly bound. Pages bright and generally clean, with the odd spot. Very Good.

Seller Inventory # 900F25

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Spectator, with Sketches of the Lives of the Authors
• Publisher: Alex Lawrie, Edinburgh
• Publication Date: 1804
• Binding: Leather
• Illustrator: None
• Condition: Very Good
• Book Type: book
• Seller catalogs:
  • Literature