[Donne, John- 1700] Biathanatos: A Declaration of that Paradox, or Thesis, that Self-Homicide is not so Naturally Sin

London: [no publisher given], 1700.

Second edition. 8vo (192 x 116 mm). Modern quarter tan calf, attractive marbled boards. Title-page printed within double rule border. (A few minor marginal repairs, some browning or spotting.) The second edition of Donne's controversial justification of suicide, first published by his son in 1644. A unique treatise, published posthumously and against the author's wishes by his son in which Donne discusses with wonderful subtlety and learning the question whether under any conceivable circumstances suicide might be excusable. ESTC R32816; Wing D-1860. Provenance: Collegii Sti Augustini apud Cantuarienses Liber (armorial bookplate with pencil note indicating the book's sale); Hamilton Tyler (bookplate and signature).

Price: $1,850.00   Item #5829