Harrison's Description Of England In Shakspere's Youth - Being The Second and Third Books Of His Description Of Britaine and England.
By Frederick J. Furnivall
Publisht for The New Shakspere Society by N. Trubner & Co: London 1877
Complete Set In 2 Volumes
"Edited by Frederick J. Furnivall and published for the New Shakspere Society in 1877, Harrison's Description of England in Shakspere's Youth presents the second and third books of William Harrison's Description of Britaine and England, originally part of Holinshed's Chronicles (1577 and 1587 editions). This work offers a vivid and detailed portrait of English society during the late 16th century, the very world in which Shakespeare lived and wrote. Harrison's account covers a wide range of topics—from agriculture, trade, and education to religion, social customs, and governance—providing a rich tapestry of Elizabethan life that illuminates the historical context behind Shakespeare's plays.
Furnivall's edition is more than a simple reprint; it's a scholarly endeavor aimed at making Harrison's observations accessible to Victorian readers and Shakespeare enthusiasts. The volume includes annotations, supplementary extracts from contemporary sources like Fynes Moryson and Coryat, and insights into London's civic regulations, sermons, and infrastructure. Together, these elements create a comprehensive cultural snapshot of England in the 1500s, offering readers not just historical facts but a textured sense of daily life, values, and the rhythms of a nation on the cusp of modernity."
Both volumes have been professionally rebound with sturdy boards and excellent assembly - probably c1950's/60's rebind. Pages are remarkably clean across both volumes with light age toning to prelims only. Large folding plates are in superb condition. The 1st volume contains 1 x large folding plate of London. The 2nd volume contains 8 large folding plates + 2 full page maps + 2 full page plans + 4 full page architectural plate engravings. A very nice, complete Shakspere history set in very good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
