The Comedies of Terence 1768 George Colman Tr. Antique Vintage Roman Theatre

A beautiful set of Georgian volumes, published in 1768, containing the dramatic comedies of Terence (Publius Terentius Afer), one of the more popular playwrights of the Roman Republic. The playwright authored six comedies based on original Greek concepts, all of which have survived two thousand years of socio-political upheaval and literary developments. Terence's comedies are known for being more sophisticated and layered projects than the slapstick plays popularised before him, a depth of human understanding, as argued by some scholars, welling from the possibility that Terence may have once been a slave. Illustrated with eight stunning folding black and white copper-engraved plates depicting character mask designs, scenes from the plays etc. The front board to volume I is starting but holding (and would benefit from reinforcement).

Internally, a small water stain to prelims of volume II, a spot of foxing here and there (more so to later pages) and general age-related tanning. Collated complete with all plates present and in very good condition. Re-backed in original brown calf leather with blind-stamped borders to the boards and later marbled endpapers which remain very bright.

Delicately gilt-tooled spines with raised bands and two-tone title labels. A wonderful piece of literary history and a great gift for Classics fans. I package my books using recycled materials wherever possible.