Oct 18, 2016 - Sale 2425

Sale 2425 - Lot 27

Price Realized: $ 875
?Final Price Realized includes Buyer’s Premium added to Hammer Price
Estimate: $ 500 - $ 750
CASAUBON, MERIC. A Treatise concerning Enthusiasme, As it is an Effect of Nature: but is mistaken by many for either Divine Inspiration, or Diabolical Possession. [28], 228 pages, including initial blank. 8vo, 166x108 mm, contemporary sheep, rubbed, front cover corners worn through, artlessly rebacked, endpapers conspicuously renewed; contents toned and dampwrinkled with occasional soiling, some headlines shaved, scattered minor stains. Later signature of John Davidson on initial blank, contemporary owner's monogram on title. London: R. D. for Tho. Johnson, 1655

Additional Details

first edition. "This was the first separate treatise on enthusiasm, a term used for conditions attributed to possession by a superior power. Casaubon divided it into two kinds: supernatural, which was 'a true possession . . . whether divine or diabolical,' and natural, 'whereof all men are capable,' to which belonged the delusions and hallucinations of the insane"--Hunter & Macalpine, page 143. Wing C812; ESTC R14401.