The Pilgrim's Progress by Bunyan, John - 1906

London: Arthur L. Humphreys, 1906 First edition thus. From the Royal Library Chef d'Oeuvre Series. Finely bound by Bennett in full dark red morocco, double-ruled in gilt with decorative designs to corners, five raised bands to spine, compartments decorated and lettered in gilt, gilt turn-ins, top edge gilt, other edges untrimmed, red, blue, and yellow marbled endpapers. A near fine copy with a touch of rubbing to extremities. Originally published in the late 17th century, The Pilgrim's Progress is a classic religious text that was an immediately popular and critical success which resulted in several reprint editions within the author's lifetime and beyond. An instructive and entertaining Christian allegory that addresses the struggles of faith encountered by all believers, The Pilgrim's Progress tells, in two parts, the stories of Christian's journey to the "Celestial City." Christian's wife, Christiana, and their children subsequently journey to join him there. In his poetic introduction, Bunyan explains his hope that The Pilgrim's Progress would help both the religious and atheist alike: "This book will make a traveler of thee, / If by its counsels thou wilt ruled be: / It will direct thee, / If thou wilt its directions understand: / Yea, it will make the slothful active be; / The blind also delightful things to see.". Hard Cover. Near Fine.