Fenelon

1718 · rif. 50930 — à Amsterdam: Chez J. Frédéric Bernard 1718. Fine. Chez J. Frédéric Bernard à Amsterdam 1718 9 x 15.50 cm relié First edition. Another edition appeared on the same date from Florentin Delaulne in Paris. Title page in red and black. Full old red morocco binding ca 1860 unsigned. Raised bands spine in Jansenist style decorated with blind compartments. Gilt title and ""Edition originale"" at foot. Double blind fillet frame on boards. Rich interior border. Edges gilt. Foxing angular lack at head of leaf 45-46 not touching text light rubbing at foot of spine a very small marginal dampstain affecting some leaves at head otherwise handsome copy in an unsigned master binding. Dialogue between A B and C on the nature of eloquence A having the role of Socrates and employing maieutics B and C responding to A's questions. The characters discuss a sermon they have just heard and from there define the qualities of true eloquence by drawing these from examples of the Ancients. Fénelon criticizes both Ancients and Moderns giving preference to the eloquence of Holy Scripture. Du Cerceau's essay attempts to characterize French poetry and what makes verse specific in relation to prose. Both works are supported by quite subtle and pertinent grammatical analyses adjectives figures genitive and ablative. Chez J. Frédéric Bernard hardcover