The History of Arsaces, Prince of Betlis

1775, an early printing of volume one only, but a poor copy

Author

Publisher

Printing Details

Early printing. Volume one only (of two). Full leather (defective). 17.5 × 10cm, xxii + 228pp

Charles Johnston's novel (first published in 1774) recounts the eventful travels of Selim, an intrepid young Arab who runs away from his parental home to learn about the world. Written as a series of tales within tales, Johnston's oriental romance offers readers a remarkable concoction of Gulliver-inspired fantasy, political satire, and moral reflection.

Condition

Poor. The leather is heavily bumped and rubbed, with cracking to the front joint and spine. The prelims, title page and contents pages are very nearly detached, with weakening to the binding. The pages are tanned throughout, with some edgewear to the text. However, it remains readable with gentle handling and is quite a scarce title.