Thompson, Benjamin (translator)

The German Theatre

London By J. Wright for Vernor and Hood 1801 Engraved frontispiece to each play, woodcut ornaments.First Colleced Edition. 6 volumes. Small 8vo. Contemporary half russia, marbled sides, smooth spines divided into six panels by gilt fillets, lettered and numbered in gilt, plain endleaves, sprinkled edges. (A few patches of insect activity on the sides, slightly rubbed). Each play has a separate title-page, and there is a general title to each volume (that of vol 1 is the vol.2 title-page corrected, apparently as issued). The plays were originally issued in monthly parts. There are translations of nineteen contemporary German plays, including ten by Kotzebue, with an account of his life. Two are by Schiller ("The Robbers" and "Don Carlos"), one by Goethe ("Stella") and one by Lessing ("Emilia Galotti"). The selection provides a clear indication of prevailing taste, particularly of the high regard in which Kotzebue was held. The edition is dedicated to the Duchess of Devonshire. Benjamin Thompson was the son of a Yorkshire merchant and an aspiring dramatist. He learned German when staying in Hamburg on his father's business. His translation of "Menschenhass und Reue" was adapted by Sheridan, performed first under the title "The Stranger" in 1798 with Kemble in the title-role, and again in 1801. Bookplate of Clonbrock House, Ireland. The set is in typically good condition.

• GBP 500.00 > other currencies
• ordernr.: ebc833

• bookseller: George Bayntun (GREAT BRITAIN)