A View of the English Stage; Or, A Series of Dramatic Criticisms

The scarce first edition, second issue of William Hazlitt's volume of early 19th century theatrical criticism, a work that helped establish him as one of the greatest critics and essayists in the history of the English language. A scarce first edition, second issue. The first edition, first issue was published in 1818 by R. Stodart. This is the 1821 first edition, second issue, utilising the sheets of the first issue, with a cancel title page bearing the new imprint of John Warren. Keynes 28.A collection of theatre reviews written by Hazlitt between 1813 and 1818, offering sharp and often controversial commentary on contemporary performances, actors, and productions.Hazlitt discusses leading figures of the stage such as Kean, Kemble, and Siddons, while also reflecting on the interpretation of Shakespeare and other dramatists.Rebacked, in a signed binding by F. Bedford. With a Henry Sotheran bookseller's label to a front blank.Retaining half title, and original endpapers. Advertisement to final leaf.The work captures both the vitality of early 19th century theatrical culture, and Hazlitt's own views, making it a landmark in English dramatic criticism. Rebacked, in a full calf signed binding, with back strip laid down, and retaining the original boards and endpapers. Externally, lovely. Rear joint head and tail starting, with board firmly held. Front hinge strained but firmly held. Bookseller's label to tail of verso of front free endpaper. Internally, firmly bound. Pages clean and bright. Very Good.…