The Poetical Works Of Alexander Pope
Edited by The Rev. H. F. Cary
With Illustrations by John Gilbert
Published by George Routledge And Co: London 1854 2nd Edition
This 1854 second edition of The Poetical Works of Alexander Pope, edited by the Rev. H. F. Cary, presents a comprehensive gathering of one of the central voices of English Augustan poetry. Pope's verse—celebrated for its precision, wit, and moral clarity—ranges from the heroic couplets of An Essay on Man and An Essay on Criticism to the satirical brilliance of The Rape of the Lock and The Dunciad. Cary's careful editorial hand provides a revised and accessible text, prefaced by a biographical notice that situates Pope's work within the intellectual and literary currents of the early eighteenth century.
A notable feature of this edition is the inclusion of illustrations by John Gilbert, one of the most accomplished Victorian illustrators of literary classics. Gilbert's engravings bring a lively narrative quality to Pope's poetry, translating its allegory, satire, and classical imagery into richly detailed visual scenes that complement the text rather than overwhelm it. These illustrations reflect mid-nineteenth-century tastes and contribute significantly to the book's appeal as a Victorian production, enhancing both its aesthetic presence and its interpretive depth.
Published by George Routledge & Co. in London, this second edition exemplifies the robust mid-Victorian tradition of finely produced literary volumes intended for both study and display. The solid leather binding, engraved plates, and thoughtful editorial framework make it a desirable example of nineteenth-century bookmaking, as well as a lasting testament to Pope's enduring influence on English literature. This edition would particularly appeal to collectors of Victorian illustrated books, admirers of Alexander Pope's poetry, and readers interested in the presentation of classical English literature in the nineteenth century.
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General wear and rub through to leather covers and spine as shown. Small prior owner inscription as shown. Binding is firm with no loose pages and strong, secure covers. 6 plates present + frontis - assume complete/no index to plates. Some age marking present and light foxing to plates. Ink stains noticed on page 418/19. Overall, a nice presentation copy in good condition. Please study photos to further understand condition.
