The Fortress of Sorrento: A Petit Historical Drama, in Two Acts.

NOAH, Mordecai Manuel.

$1,750.00

Item Number: 82504

New York: D. Longworth, 1808.

First edition of “the most important Jewish lay leader of the early 19th century” Mordecai Noah’s early play, published when he was only 23 years old. 12mo, bound in modern calf, gilt titles to the spine, lacking the 2 advertisement leaves called for by Singerman. In near fine condition. Rare.

Born in Philadelphia on July 14, 1785, Jewish American playwright, diplomat, and journalist Mordecai Manuel Noah became the most important Jewish lay leader in America in the early 19th century and the first Jewish American to reach national fame. After studying law in Charleston, South Carolina, Noah moved to New York where he founded and edited The National Advocate, The New York Enquirer (later merged into the New York Courier and Enquirer), The Evening Star, and The Sunday Times newspapers. A prolific writer, he also enjoyed the reputation of being the most popular American playwright in early 19th century America, with his Fortress of Sorrento, She Would Be a Soldier, and The Seige of Tripoli attracting wide audiences.