Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Politie. [Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity].

HOOKER, Richard.

$4,000.00

Item Number: 130372

London: Printed by William Standbye, [1622].

Early printing of this important work by the influential English theologian. Quarto, quarter morocco with gilt titles and ruling to the spine in seven compartments within raised bands, red morocco spine label lettered in gilt, engraved title, divisional titles, and woodcut initials. In very good condition. Bookplate and period ownership inscription. Rare.

Hooker's monumental Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity "formed the basis of Locke's Treatise of Civil Government and can thus be considered the first statement of the principles behind the Constitution of England" (PMM 104). "Hooker's work represents not only a solid compendium of philosophical ideas in support of ecclesiastical and secular hierarchy, but a reasoned proposal for an open and tolerant society based on mutual love and respect. The work is recognized as a monument of English prose style… it represents the high-water mark of a prose that is at once lucid and elegant, formally balanced and yet forceful and flowing" (Ruoff, 217). The influence of Hooker's work, both directly and indirectly through the considerable influence of Locke's Two Treatises, extends as well to the foundation of American constitutionalism. "Madison and the other framers made frequent reference to Calvin, Richard Hooker, and the New England divines in their political writings, and were vitally aware of the long history of compacts in America" (Lutz & Warren, A Covenanted People, 64).