Books

Edinburgh: Printed for James Ballantyne and Co., 1814 Three volumes. First edition. One of 1000 copies. Bound with all half-titles and fly-titles, lacking the terminal imprint leaves as usual, terminal blanks present. 12mo. Finely bound in contemporary dark navy morocco over purple marbled paper-covered boards, compartments ruled in gilt, gilt decorations to spine ends, gilt unicorn emblem to lower spine compartments, spine titles in gilt, marbled edges and green endpapers. A fine set with very slight signs of rubbing to the extremities, a few very minor spots, otherwise extremely bright and clean. Overall, an extremely attractive and remarkably fine set. Todd & Bowden 77Aa. Set during the Jacobite Rebellion of 1745, Waverley is often considered among scholars to be the first historical novel. Scott was influenced by 18th century enlightenment, evidenced by his realistic depiction of peasant characters and his ideas of social reform that also embrace the importance of tradition.…

The novel 'Waverley' by Walter Scott is regarded as the first historical novel in the English language, blending history with fiction to portray the Jacobite uprising of 1745.

The first edition can be identified by the title page, which lists 'W. Bulmer and Co.' as the printer and 'Archibald Constable and Company' as the publisher.