Britannia Antiquissima; or, A Key To The Philology Of History (Sacred and Profane)
By John Jones Thomas (Late Her Majestys Inspector Of Denominational Schools - Colony Of Victoria)
Published by Henry Tolman Dwight: Melbourne 1860 1st Edition
A somewhat scarce and valuable reference on the Philology of History - the structure, historical development and relationship of languages. Includes
discussion of the Druids, Bardic tradition, Welsh Runes etc. It was published in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia in 1860. Last page notes this book as being "Volume 1". Research indicates that further volumes were planned but didn't eventuate. Considering the author is noted as "late", it would seem obvious as to why. Includes 2 plates as published.
John Jones Thomas's Britannia Antiquissima; or, A Key to the Philology of History (Sacred and Profane) is a sweeping and speculative linguistic study that attempts to trace the origins of ancient British civilization through philological connections to sacred and classical texts. Published in Melbourne in 1860, the work reflects Thomas's belief that the roots of British history lie not merely in Roman or Anglo-Saxon traditions, but in far older, possibly Cimmerian and Druidic cultures. He draws on triadic structures, etymological parallels, and comparative mythology to argue for a continuity between ancient British tongues and languages of Asia Minor and the Hebrew tradition. The book is dense with linguistic conjecture, often linking obscure words and symbols to broader historical narratives.
Thomas's approach is emblematic of 19th-century antiquarian enthusiasm, blending philology with nationalistic fervor and religious undertones. While his methodology lacks the rigor of modern linguistic science, Britannia Antiquissima offers a vivid glimpse into colonial-era intellectual ambition—particularly the desire to anchor British identity in a mythic and sacred past. The book's reception was mixed; despite Thomas's claims of popular demand, evidence suggests it struggled commercially, with unsold copies lingering in auction catalogues years later. Nonetheless, it remains a curious artifact of Victorian-era historical imagination, reflecting both the aspirations and eccentricities of its time.
Provenance
is very interesting on this copy. It includes an inscription with the author's regards to a "...... MacKenzie Esq" - possibly from the hand of the author but just as possible it was written by a secretary on behalf of. Also contains two signatures of a "Charles ........" from 1864.
The book was inscribed to Sir Henry Barkly, Governor of the Colony Of Victoria from 1856 to 1863.
General wear, fading and some minor damage to covers and spine as shown. Binding is excellent with no loose pages and firm, secure covers. Pages are typically clean with subtle age toning. There is some damage on pages 32/33 where it looks like a drop of candle wax fell and then stuck to the facing page (see photos). Both plates are present. Please refer to description below for provenance/inscription notes. Good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.