Books

London: John Starkey, 1671. First Edition. Full leather in pull-off case. Very Good/Case Fine. 8vo. Pp. [6], [license], [title], [1], 111; Samson Agonistes title page dated 1671, [1], 101, [2] (omissa & errata), [3]. Contemporary calf bordered in blind, black morocco label on spine; boards without pastedowns. Covers scarred, spine label eroded, final signature loosened. Pull-off case in black pebble grained morocco, titles and panels in gilt on the spine between five raised bands: very lightly soiled. First edition, first issue with the misprint of "loth" as "loah" on p. 67. To paraphrase Samuel Johnson, the characteristic quality of Milton is sublimity. Perhaps more staggering? That sight-impaired Milton carried that loftiness entirely in his head, dictating verse after declaring to his transcriber, "I want to be milked."This copy notable for the unsophisticated contemporary binding: a pure example. WING M-2152.

Samson Agonistes is a tragedy by Milton, published in 1671, modeled after Greek tragedy and based on the biblical story of Samson.