The Republic of Plato In Ten Books.

PLATO]. TRANSLATED FROM THE GREEK BY HARRY SPENS,.

$20,000.00

Item Number: 138322

Glasgow: Printed by Robert and Andrew Foulis, 1763.

First edition in English of Plato’s Republic, marking the first appearance in the English language of Plato‘s profoundly influential dialogue concerning the nature of justice. Quarto, bound in full polished calf with raised gilt bands to the spine, morocco spine label lettered in gilt, all edges speckled red. Harry Spens was a minister at the parish of Wemyss in Fife, and respected classicist. In his introduction he professes his intent in his translation is: “To give the English Reader a view of Plato’s sentiments and manner of writing, and to stir up the youth to the study of the Ancients.” Richard Garnett, in his own introduction of the Everyman’s Library reprint of this translation, laments the relative lack of critical attention paid to it, writing: “On the whole, Spens’s version should not be lightly esteemed. It is clearly the work of a scholar and a man of considerable literary ability…” The brothers Robert and Andrew Foulis were renowned printers of classical works in their time, sometimes referred to as ‘the Elzevirs of Britain.’ Their works, mostly intended for scholars, were “much sought after as admirable specimens of typography, and are noticeable for their severely plain elegance” (DNB 7: 514). In very good condition. Rare and desirable.

"Its setting and its characters are full of political meaning. Its arguments are tantalizing and its fables fascinating… [Plato's] utopia is alarming and his metaphysics are intoxicating" (Levi, 348). The Republic "has reinforced dedication, awakened vocations to leadership and strengthened the morale of those modest and competent souls who are always in reality the guardians of society" (Rexroth, 79).