Books

First Hammond edition. Christiana Mary Demain Hammond (1860-1900) was the first identifiably female illustrator of Austen, illustrating Emma (1898) as well as the present title. Hammond is best known for her book illustrations of Austen, William Makepeace Thackeray, Elizabeth Gaskell, and George Eliot. By "representing the main characters in ways that stress their individuality... Hammond's terse line often creates a spontaneous, and sometimes even a febrile effect" (Cooke). Octavo (192 x 125 mm). Finely bound by the Chelsea Bindery in turquoise morocco, spine lettered and decorated with centre tool in gilt, raised bands, twin rule to turn-ins in gilt, blue fan endpapers, gilt edges. Illustrated black and white frontispiece, illustrated chapter headpieces, 9 illustrated plates. A fine copy. Gilson E94. Simon Cooke, Christiana Mary Demain 'Chris' Hammond, 2016.

"Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen is a classic novel that explores themes of love, social standing, and personal growth. Published in 1813, it is set in rural England and revolves around the character Elizabeth Bennet, the second of five daughters of a country gentleman, Mr. Bennet. Elizabeth is intelligent, witty, and possesses a keen sense of moral integrity. The narrative begins with the arrival of a wealthy and eligible bachelor, Mr. Bingley, to the neighborhood, which causes a stir among the local families with marriageable daughters. Mr. Bingley brings along his friend Mr. Darcy, who is even wealthier but also more aloof and prideful. Initial impressions lead to mutual dislike between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. While Mr. Bingley quickly grows fond of Elizabeth's older sister, Jane, Mr. Darcy's pride and Elizabeth's prejudice against him set the stage for a series of misunderstandings and emotional conflicts. As the story progresses, various romantic entanglements unfold, involving Elizabeth's younger sisters, Lydia and Kitty, and other characters such as Mr. Collins, a pompous clergyman, and Mr. Wickham, a charming but unscrupulous officer. Through these interactions, Austen critiques the social mores and marriage market of her time, highlighting the limited opportunities for women to secure their future and the importance of marrying for love rather than convenience or economic security. Despite their initial misjudgments, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy gradually come to understand and respect each other. Elizabeth learns of Darcy's true character and his role in resolving a scandal involving her youngest sister, Lydia. Mr. Darcy's actions and Elizabeth's realization of her own prejudices lead to a transformation in their relationship. The novel culminates in the overcoming of pride and prejudice, mutual respect, and the eventual marriages of Elizabeth to Mr. Darcy and Jane to Mr. Bingley, underscoring Austen's belief in the importance of personal growth and moral integrity in marriage. "Pride and Prejudice" remains one of Austen's most beloved works, celebrated for its wit, its insightful commentary on the social fabric of the time, and its exploration of the complexities of human relationships and personal growth.