Ivanhoe: A Romance

Edinburgh: printed for Archibald Constable and Co., 1820 Three volumes. First edition, first issue, with pages 159-306 in Vol. I misnumbered as 151-298, bound with all fly-titles present, half-title present in volume II. Finely bound in contemporary full brown calf, diamond-patterned boards, spine compartments ruled, lettered and decorated in gilt, marbled page edges, gray endpapers. Some wear and mild rubbing to the extremities, small former owner signature to title pages, pencil signature to front endpaper of volume I. A few scattered spots and overall, extremely clean and fresh pages. Overall, a very good set free of any repairs or restoration. Todd & Bowden 140Aa. Widely considered Scott's most popular work, Ivanhoe is a historical novel set in late 12th century England during the reign of Richard I. Specifically, Ivanhoe, set in 1194 shortly after the Third Crusade, presents the development of modern England as the result of the enmity between the Saxons and Normans. The mythical text is narrated by the fictional protagonist Wilfred of Ivanhoe, a Saxon, and includes many notable historical figures including Richard the Lionheart, Robin Hood and the Merry Men, among others. An instant bestseller with resounding literary significance, Ivanhoe sold out of its first printing of 10,000 copies within two weeks and was credited with catalyzing the popularity of historical fiction.. First Edition. Hard Cover. Very Good.