SENECA'S MORALS BY WAY OF ABSTRACT

Seneca; L'Estrange, Roger; [Hill, Samuel]

Published by I. Thomas and E. T. Andrews, Boston, 1792

First US edition of "one of the most popular books of the eighteenth century" (Harper), an edited compendium of the ancient Roman Stoic philosopher and politician and a title that was a formative read for a young George Washington. First published in London in 1678, L'Estrange's SENECA'S MORALS ran through numerous British editions before landing on the press of influential US printer Isaiah Thomas. The text was already a classic, both in popularity and reputation: George Washington was known to have acquired a London-printed copy at age seventeen, when he "closely read [.] and absorbed its principles" (Harper, 182), the text deeply influencing his personal philosophies. A solid copy in contemporary sheep speaking to the influence of Stoicism in the fledgling United States. 12mo. 7'' x 4''. Contemporary full tree sheep. Illustrated with black-and-white engraved frontispiece and three black-and-white engraved plates by Samuel Hill, with woodcut ornaments. xxiv, 384 pages, collated complete. Early owner name to second blank, Obadiah Thayers. Later pencil notes to verso of second blank, compiling quotes from the book. Small marginal marks throughout; one blacked out word ("damned"). Binding with light edgewear, tiny chip to foot of spine, spot of rubbing to front edge; a few shallow marks to rear board. Title page with 1'' loss to upper corner, affecting one letter of the title. Leaves with scattered light soil and toning, occasional edgewear. Firm. Seller Inventory # 49018

Bibliographic Details

Title: SENECA'S MORALS BY WAY OF ABSTRACT
Publisher: I. Thomas and E. T. Andrews, Boston
Publication Date: 1792
Condition: Very good plus.
Edition: 1st Edition