1847 Old Saint Paul's: Plague & Fire by WH Ainsworth Antique Romance Book

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1847 Old Saint Paul's: Plague & Fire by WH Ainsworth Antique Romance Book

Old Saint Paul's: A Tale Of The Plague And The Fire
By William Harrison Ainsworth
Illustrations by John Franklin
Published by Parry, Blenkarn & Co: London 1847

" Old Saint Paul's: A Tale of the Plague and the Fire by William Harrison Ainsworth, published by Parry, Blenkarn & Co. in London in 1847, is one of the author's most atmospheric historical romances, vividly blending tragedy, heroism, and moral struggle amid two of London's greatest disasters—the Plague of 1665 and the Great Fire of 1666. Set against the haunting backdrop of Restoration-era London, Ainsworth weaves the lives of his characters through scenes of devastation, courage, and redemption, uniting historical accuracy with the dramatic flair that defined his storytelling. The edition features detailed illustrations by John Franklin, whose engravings capture the horror and grandeur of Ainsworth's vision, from the plague-ridden alleys to the burning city skyline.

In this sweeping narrative, Ainsworth transforms catastrophe into allegory, exploring themes of faith, sin, and divine judgment through the fates of his richly drawn figures. His portrayal of Old St. Paul's Cathedral—both as a physical refuge and a symbol of endurance—anchors the novel's exploration of spiritual and civic renewal amid chaos. The fusion of meticulously researched history with Gothic imagination makes the work a quintessential example of the Victorian fascination with the moral lessons of the past.

A triumph of narrative history and popular fiction, this 1847 illustrated edition exemplifies Ainsworth's ability to combine moral reflection with thrilling spectacle. It remains a significant piece of early Victorian historical literature. This volume would appeal to collectors of nineteenth-century fiction, admirers of Ainsworth's London novels, and readers interested in literary portrayals of the Great Plague and Fire."


General wear to covers and spine with some peeling and rub through evident. Binding is excellent with no loose pages. Pencil inscription only. Pages typically clean with some foxing mainly around prelims and plates. All 21 plate illustrations present. Very good condition overall. Please stufy photos to further understand condition.

Size 23.5cm x 15cm x 3.5cm - 434 Pages

PRODUCT DETAILS


Condition: Very good
Binding: Leather
Special Attributes: ["Illustrated", "Original Bindings", "All Edges Gilt", "All 21 Plates Present"]
Region: Europe
Subject: Literature & Fiction
Original/Facsimile: Original
Seller Notes: General wear to covers and spine with some peeling and rub through evident. Binding is excellent with no loose pages. Pencil inscription only. Pages typically clean with some foxing mainly around prelims and plates. All 21 plate illustrations present. Very good condition overall. Please stufy photos to further understand condition.
Language: English
Author: W.H. Ainsworth
Publisher: Parry, Blenkarn & Co: London
Year Printed: 1847
Sub-subject: Old Saint Paul's Romance Novel