Marius the Epicurean His Sensations and Ideas

London: Macmillan and Co, 1885. First edition. Leather. Very Good. 8" by 5.5". None. The first edition of Walter Pater's captivating historical novel set in Rome during 161-177 AD, complete in two volumes. The first edition of this work.Complete in two volumes.'Marius the Epicurean' is a novel written by Walter Pater, set in 161-177 AD in the Rome during the Nerva-Antoine dynasty. The novel follows a young Roman protagonist, during his pursuit of religion and philosophy at a time of change. It is a philosophical novel, and was praised by the novelist Mary Ward as being the greatest philosophical novel.Walter Pater was an essayist and writer, who published many controversial works during his career, including 'Conclusion', which states that our physical lives are made up of scientific processes, and 'The Renaissance', which seemed to endorse amorality. He is partly responsible for what is known as the Aesthetic Movement, influencing authors like Oscar Wilde.Prior owner's ink inscription to the recto to the front free endpaper. In a full crushed morocco binding. Externally, generally smart. Minor rubbing to the joints, with a crack to the head of the front joint of Volume I. Light bumping to the extremities. Minor marks to the boards. Front hinge of Volume I is strained but remains firm. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are bright and clean with the odd spot, mostly to the first and last few pages. Very Good