The School of Pantagruel: An Essay . . . Second Edition.
Sunbury: Charles Collett, 1862. Stated second edition, one of 25 copies; according to the author’s note, the privately printed first edition of 1861 was suppressed before publication. 8vo, contemporary (likely original) blue half roan, marbled boards, gilt lettering, 24 pages, a.e.g. Somewhat rubbed and worn; hinges show some wear, but sound; a very good copy. Item #17858
“Although our modern literature is thoroughly purified from the taint of which I am about to speak, many of the older books infected by it still remain in our libraries, sheltering themselves under the indulgent title of ‘standard literature.’ ” Shepherd’s second book, preceded by a collection of juvenile verse, Annus Moriens (London 1858). The youthful future bibliographer, editor and miscellaneous author (1842-1895) here traces the history of salacious literature from its continental sources down through English literature and such usual suspects as Smollett and Fielding; the level of moral indignation suggests close study of the subject. The claim that the earlier version of this work was suppressed appears borne out by library holdings; only the British Library is found to hold a copy of the 1861 printing, which (perhaps not surprisingly) issued forth from the press of John Camden Hotten. Contemporary bookplate of H. E. Robinson on the front paste-down; later Sadony private library blind-stamp on the title page.
Price: $225.00