ANGLI DEFENSIO PRO POPULO ANGLICANO

Londini [i.e., Gouda?]: typis Du Gardianis, 1651. Quarto, [10], 104, [6] pages; VG; bound in later paper-covered boards, label with gilt titling; bookplate of Franz Pollack-Parnau to front pastedown; small worming to tail of gutter, doe snot impact text; title page browned, name in ink, two pinprick holes; JR Consignment. Shelved case 7. This edition was an unauthorized Continental printing. "There were a dozen editions of this popular work over two years: one dated 1650...and the remainder 1651 or 1652" [Wikenheiser]. It is worth noting that the 1650 imprint was published in 1651, due to the use of "the old style of dating, under which the year did not officially begin till 25 March. [Maden]. "This is the work which finally cost Milton his eyesight and which Warton characterized as 'the best apology ever offered for bringing kings ot the block.' In 1660, all copies were ordered to be surrendered and, along with Eikonoklastes, "to be burnt by the common hangman." [Wickenheiser]; This work was commissioned by Parliament during Oliver Cromwell's protectorship of England, and Milton defends the parliamentary party against accusations that the rebels led by Cromwell were guilty of regicide for executing King Charles. ESTC R31896; Wing M2168; Coleridge 46; Shawcross 322; Madan 3. 1345529. Shelved Dupont Bookstore. (Inventory #: 1345529)