THE HISTORY OF THE WORTHIES OF ENGLAND, ENDEAVOURED BY THOMAS FULLER.
London, England: Printed by J. G. W. L. and W. G., 1662. First Edition. Leather-bound. Folio. 13.75 in. x 9.25 in., pp. [4], 30, 33-70, 73-144, 149-300, 317-368, 16, 13-100, 105-144, 149-258, 257 [i.e. 261]-354, 232, [4], 60. Illustrated with engraved frontis of Thomas Fuller. Contemporary full paneled calf with decorative frames blind-stamped to boards Six raised bands. Rubbing to edges and light scuffing to boards. Dedication and preface by the author's son. Armorial bookplate of D.E.A. Meredith, with "Spes Est In Deo", to front pastedown. Another bookseller reports that these bookplates were purchased by Meredith from Sotheby's, May 1969). (A different) previous owner's name in ink to front pastedown. Very Good. Item #81431
FIRST BIOGRAPHY OF SHAKESPEARE. Thomas Fuller (1608 – 1661) was an English churchman and historian,now remembered for this book containing his writings about the Worthies of England, published posthumously in 1662, John Fuller finished the printing of the work, according to the copy the author left behind him.
"The first formal biographical notice of Shakespeare was written fifty years after his death by Thomas Fuller, a clergyman whose most important work was The Church History of Britain. His final work, published posthumously, was the first biographical dictionary in English. Fuller’s History of the Worthies of England catalogued the significant features of every county in England, relying on comprehensive research (he was known as a “walking library”). He sought to enliven the entries of writers by naming and numbering their books. Fuller included Shakespeare among the notable authors of his native Warwickshire. This brief passage outlines Shakespeare’s contemporary reputation. He is compared to classical poets, including that “fine wag” Ovid..." (University of Iowa Library).
Price: $775.00