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Hobbes, Thomas.
Leviathan, or The Matter, Forme, & Power of a Common-wealth Ecclesiasticall and Civill.
 
Publisher: Andrew Crooke, London;
Date of Publication: 1651
Stock Code: 5317
 
FIRST EDITION, second state. Tall quarto, pp [6], 248, 247-56, 261-394 (final leaf misnumbered as 397-394 instead of 395-396) - complete, despite pagination. Engraved title, letterpress title and folding letterpress table as called for. Engraved title designed by Hobbes depicting a crowned giant, whose body and arms are made up of tiny human figures, wielding sword and crozier and towering over the landscape below. Letterpress title page with ‘Bear’ imprint (each of the three early editions are distinguished by the printers ornamental devices) and misprint of Ckooke for Crooke, both denote this as the so-called ‘Bear’ issue. Woodcut headpiece to Introduction and woodcut initial letters to the four parts. Full contemporary calf, skilfully and sympathetically recased retaining the original boards, and with original spine laid on. Five raised bands; later red title label with gilt titles and ruling. Despite both title pages bearing the date 1651 Macdonald and Hargreaves in their bibliography state “All the evidence seems to suggest that this [Bear] edition was printed in Holland and probably not long after 1651”. Boards a little bruised at corners otherwise sound. Lengthy early nineteenth century inscription to ffep; minor marginal stains and scattered light foxing & creasing. Small loss to margin p 343/4 (text unaffected) and minor worm holes to margins.
 
Probably the most famous and influential book of political philosophy of the 17th century and one of the most important works in the history of political thought. Hobbes Leviathan is one of the most strident and earliest examples of social contract theory, and a work of Statecraft comparable to Machiavelli’s The Prince. The Leviathan, a sea monster from the Old Testament, represents the theory that the state must be strong both to protect its people and to keep them in check. Macdonald & Hargreaves 43; PMM 138; Wing H2246.
 
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