Travels into Several Remote Nations of the World. In Four Parts. By Lemuel Gulliver, first Surgeon, and then Captain of Several Ships. [Gulliver’s Travels].

SWIFT, Jonathan.

$17,500.00

Item Number: 146104

London: Printed for Benj. Motte, at the Middle Temple-Gate in Fleet-Street, 1726.

First edition of one of the most important works in all of English literature, Teerink’s “AA” edition of Jonathan Swift’s masterpiece. Octavo, four parts in two volumes bound in full contemporary calf, rebacked with morocco spine labels lettered in gilt, botanical gilt tooling to the spine in six compartments within raised gilt bands, gilt scrolling to the front and rear panels, engraved frontispiece portrait of Captain Lemuel Gulliver (Teerink’s 2nd state), illustrated with five engraved maps and one engraved table. In very good condition. A desirable example of this landmark work in English literature.

"Of all the works of eighteenth-century English literature, it is probably Gulliver's Travels that is the best-known and most widely read today" (ODNB). Swift was one of the greatest satirists of his time, hiding behind his various noms de plume, he poked fun at the social and political issues of the day, "the Prince of pamphleteers and satirists" (PMM). Jonathan Swift's masterpiece will "last as long as the language, because it describes the vices of man in all nations" (DNB). "A remarkable feat in the creation of imaginary worlds as a vehicle for satire upon the political and religious establishments of the day" (Clute & Grant, 914). "Gulliver's Travels has given Swift an immortality beyond temporary fame". For every edition designed for the reader with an eye to the historical background, 20 have appeared, abridged or adapted, for readers who care nothing for the satire and enjoy it as a first-class story" (PMM 185). "Of all Swift's writings it best shows the merits of his mind and his gifts of expression". It is important to realize that it could be written only by one who had the highest ideals for human achievement and who despaired of the achieving" (Baugh et al., 865-66)""although Swift himself expressed this hope for his "Travells" to a friend: "They are admirable Things, and will wonderfully mend the world" (Rothschild 2104).