Pseudo-Martyr. Wherein Out of Certain Propositions and Gradations, This Conclusion is Euicted. That Those Which Are of the Romane Religion in this Kingdome, May an Ought to take the Oath of Allegance

Donne, John

Published by Printed by W. Stansby for Walter Burre, London, 1610

About this Item

First edition, first printing. Bound in early 19th century half calf double ruled at spine with black morocco stamped label; all edges speckled red. 8 x 6.25", 8vo. Very Good+ with slight rubbing to joints; a few minor water stains with light foxing to contents. Contemporary ownership crossed out at title along with the ownership signature of Sam Foley dated 1689 at upper margin of title-page. Corrections in a contemporary hand throughout. An anti-Catholic polemic by the celebrated English poet and scholar John Donne (1572-1631). This meticulously researched argument, dedicated to James I, argues that Roman Catholics who refuse to to submit to authority of the King have brought punishment on themselves and are therefore not real martyrs by "pseudo-martyrs." Donne attempts to situate the phenomenon of martyrdom as an act which was necessary to the persecuted Christians of the Early Church. It was well received by James, who encouraged him to take holy orders-- advice he would eventually take in 1615. Enclosed in a handsome custom clamshell box. Provenance of Samuel Foley (1655-1695) a bishop of Down and Connor. Connor authored Computatio Universalis(1684), a treatise on Protestant anxieties about the Catholic church's control over time. Seller Inventory # 140946121

Bibliographic Details

Title: Pseudo-Martyr. Wherein Out of Certain ...

Publisher: Printed by W. Stansby for Walter Burre, London

Publication Date: 1610

Condition: Very Good+

Edition: First Edition.