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1870s: Lord Lytton’s Works – 16 Volumes
$1,500.00Bulwer-Lytton’s works are characterized by their richly detailed narratives, exploring themes of love, power, ambition, and societal norms. He was adept at blending elements of the Gothic, historical fiction, and science fiction, which allowed him to reach a broad audience and influence the development of these genres. Notably, he is credited with popularizing the phrase “the pen is mightier than the sword” in his play “Richelieu; Or the Conspiracy” (1839).
Among his most celebrated novels are:
- “The Last Days of Pompeii” (1834): Set in the final days of Pompeii before the city is destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, this novel combines historical detail with a compelling narrative of love, betrayal, and fate.
- “Eugene Aram” (1832): A novel based on the true story of an 18th-century English scholar convicted of murder, exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and the pursuit of knowledge.
- “Paul Clifford” (1830): Famous for its opening line, “It was a dark and stormy night,” this novel delves into the life of its titular character, from his upbringing in the criminal underworld to his eventual reformation.
- “The Last of the Barons” (1843): A historical novel set during the Wars of the Roses, focusing on the power struggle between King Edward IV and the Earl of Warwick.
- “The Coming Race” (1871): An early science fiction novel that explores the concept of a subterranean world inhabited by an advanced society, known as the Vril-ya. This work has been influential in speculative fiction, exploring themes of utopia, technology, and superhuman powers.
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1931: The Making of Man: An Outline of Anthropology, edited by V.F. Calverton
$25.00“The Making of Man: An Outline of Anthropology,” edited by V.F. Calverton, is a comprehensive exploration into the study of anthropology during the early 20th century. Published in 1931, a period marked by significant scientific and cultural shifts, the book delves into various aspects of human evolution, cultural development, and the biological factors that have shaped humanity. Calverton, known for his intellectual rigor and interdisciplinary approach, compiles contributions from a range of experts in the field, making this work a substantial compilation of anthropological knowledge of the time. The book reflects the era’s perspectives and theories, offering insights into how early anthropologists viewed human development and the factors influencing it.
The book is notable for its attempt to synthesize a wide array of anthropological knowledge into a cohesive framework. Covering topics from the physical evolution of humans to the development of language, art, and social structures, it provides a panoramic view of human history from an anthropological perspective. The work stands as a testament to the intellectual curiosity and scholarly efforts of its era, offering a window into the methodologies and theoretical underpinnings of early 20th-century anthropology. For modern readers, “The Making of Man” serves not only as a historical piece but also as a tool for understanding the evolution of anthropological thought and its impact on our contemporary understanding of human history and culture.
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Set of 2: As I Lay Dying, Sanctuary, by William Faulkner
$55.00This set of 2 volumes by William Faulkner includes two of his notable works, “As I Lay Dying” (1957) and “Sanctuary” (1958), both published by Random House. These hardcover volumes are bound in red cloth with gilt lettering on the cover and spine. The deckled fore-edges. Both volumes are in In mint condition.
“As I Lay Dying” is a contemporary novel that explores the Bundren family’s journey to bury their matriarch, Addie, in her hometown. Told through multiple perspectives, Faulkner delves into the complex dynamics of family relationships, grief, and the human condition.
“Sanctuary” is a gripping novel that delves into the dark underbelly of the American South. It follows the story of Temple Drake, a young woman who finds herself caught in a web of violence and corruption. Faulkner’s exploration of themes such as rape, justice, and morality makes “Sanctuary” a thought-provoking and impactful read.