R.U.R. (Rossum's Universal Robots): A Play in Three Acts and an Epilogue

Karel Capek; P. Selver [trans.]; Nigel Playfair [adapted]

Published by Humphrey Milford, Oxford University Press, London, 1923

About this Item

A smart copy of the first UK edition of Karel Capek's science-fiction play. An important work of twentieth century science fiction, remarkable for introducing the word 'robot' to modern language. The first UK edition; translated into English in the same year in a US edition published by Doubleday. These two adaptations differ.First performed in the original Czech in 1921, the work quickly became influential, and by 1923 had been translated into thirty languages.Capek coined the word 'robot' in the play, based on the Czech word 'robota', or 'forced labor'.With blank paper mounted to the verso of the title page, covering the cast list of the first UK performance; this was done by the publishers to the first edition for copyright reasons.With the inscription of Percy Clark, dated June 1923, to the head of the title page.Single advertisement leaf to the rear.A very smart copy of a first edition of this important work of science fiction, set in a factory that makes artificial people that have been created from synthetic organ matter. Initially happy to work for humans, the robots revolt and cause the extinction of the human race. Rebacked in cloth, retaining the publisher's original paper wraps. Fading to back strip, with minor closed tear to fore edge of rear wrap. Head of front wrap detaching from title page at margin, but holding firm. Internally, firmly bound. Inscription to title page head. Blank sheet pasted over cast list to verso of title page. Pages clean and bright. Very Good.

Seller Inventory # 839F26

Bibliographic Details

• Title: R.U.R. (Rossum's Universal Robots): A Play in Three Acts and an Epilogue
• Publisher: Humphrey Milford, Oxford University Press, London
• Publication Date: 1923
• Binding: Paperback
• Illustrator: None
• Edition: First edition.
• Condition: Very Good
• Book Type: book
• Seller catalogs:
  • Plays