Plato and Socrates
London: Arthur L. Humphreys, 1907. First edition thus. Hardcover. Small 8vo. [8], 3-262, [8] pp. Three-quarter contemporary brown morocco over perriwinkle cloth, boards ruled in gilt with the spine in six compartments, gilt borders and lettering on the spine; top edge gilt. Light blue and green endpapers and pastedowns. A purple ribbon bookmark laid in. Beautifully bound by Hatchards. Title page printed in red and black. Printed on handmade paper. Part of The Royal Library Belles Lettres Series. The de luxe Humphreys edition of Plato's four dialogues: Euthyphro, Apology, Crito, and Phaedo. William Whewell's translation, originally published at Cambridge in 1860. Bernard Suzanne, "Plato and His Dialogues". This volume contains an antiquated grouping of four of Plato's dialogues. The four here are grouped according to conventions of Greek Tragedy (as argued by Diogenes Laertius and Thrasyllus). Euthyphro, Apology, and Crito all relate to the laws driving the trial and execution of Socrates, as well as reporting Socrates' last days alive. Phaedo's subject matter is lighter: it centers on a discussion of the destiny of the human soul after death. Thus, the grouping has the three tragic works and one "comedic" work, a Greek dramatic tetraology. A beautiful volume, containing one of the most moving stories in philosophical history. Very Good. Item #000013188
Rubbing to the corners and spine's crown, a bookplate on the front pastedown.
Price: $275.00