The Anatomy of Melancholy

London: Peter Parker, 1676. Leather. Very Good. 13" by 8.5". Not Stated. A handsome copy of the eight edition of 'Democritus Junior's' study of melancholia, a fascinating and celebrated work of medicine and philosophy. The uncommon eighth edition of this medical work from Robert Burton, written under the name Democritus Junior, and first published in 1621. This was the final seventeenth century edition, the last to be printed until 1800.With an engraved title page, the scarce final publisher's advertisement leaf, and retaining the original half title, with 'the argument of the frontispiece' to its verso.A medical textbook on the subject of melancholia, Burton's work is written in a noticeably satirical tone in places, using melancholy as a lens through which all human emotion and thought may be scrutinize. Although presented as a medical study, it has been viewed as a work of literature as it is a scientific or philosophical text.Burton's digressive style, often verging on the stream of consciousness, informs and animates the text.ESTC reference no R10536. Collated, complete. With the register: [8] B-3R4Former owner's inscription to front pastedown. Rebound in half calf with marbled paper covered boards, with endpapers renewed. A touch of rubbing to joints at back strip head, otherwise externally excellent. Hinges starting, with board holding firm. Inscription to front pastedown. Internally, firmly bound. Pages lightly age toned due to paper type, with the odd spot. Residue of loosely inserted leaves prominent to 2E2 and 2E3, obscuring a few lines of text, with lighter examples of this residue to 2K3 and 2K4. Very Good