The Works of the Rev. George Crabbe

A lovely set of the works of the multitalented poet, surgeon, and clergyman George Crabbe. George Crabbe (1754-1832) is best remembered for his employment of realistic narrative, and for his realist depiction of working- and middle-class people and everyday life. Having apprenticed and trained as a surgeon, Crabbe made the life-changing decision in 1780 to move to London to pursue a career as a poet. Unsurprisingly, this decision caused intense financial turbulence, until Crabbe sent a letter - including several samples of his poetry - to Edmund Burke, who was impressed enough to pledge aid to Crabbe in any way he could. From this time forward, Crabbe found himself comfortably off and in the company of valuable artistic and religious contacts who were able to secure ecclasiastical livings and patronage for the remainder of Crabbe's life. His most signifcant works include 'the Village,' 'Poems,' 'the Borough,' 'Tales,' and 'Tales of the Hall.' Here we have a lovely Regency edition of his collected works, in a handsome fine binding and eminently readable condition. The volumes feature engraved frontispieces (themselves and to major works therein) and are in eminently readable condition. Complete in 8 volumes. Bound in half calf. Generally smart, lightly rubbed in places. Lovely red patina with gilt embellishments and colourful marbled boards. Worn along edges and at corners of boards. Internally, generally very firmly bound. Lovely engraved frontispieces to each volume and to major works within volumes. Generally bright and clean, with light foxing to endpapers and the odd localised instance of spotting. One plate loose from vol. VIII. Very Good.…