Lavengro: The Scholar - The Gipsy - The Priest
London: The Limited Editions Club, 1936. Illustrated with sixteen lithographs in colour and pen drawings by Barnett Freedman. First Edition. Limited to 1,500 copies, of which this is number 429. Signed by the illustrator on the limitation page. Two octavos, xix, 375p; xi, 380 pages, publisher's original gilt lettered red cloth covered boards. Top edges gilt. Illustrated by Barnett Freedman. Lavengro: The Scholar – The Gipsy – The Priest by George Borrow is a semi-autobiographical novel first published in 1851, blending memoir, fiction, and social commentary. Often regarded as Borrow’s magnum opus, the book follows the adventures of a wandering scholar who immerses himself in the diverse and colorful subcultures of early 19th-century England, including Romani (Gypsy) communities, itinerant tradesmen, and religious dissenters. Written in Borrow’s distinctive style—at once vivid, eccentric, and erudite—Lavengro explores themes of freedom, identity, and the tension between settled society and the outsider. The narrative is equally celebrated for its richly detailed depictions of Romani life and for its philosophical digressions, which have divided critics since its publication but continue to fascinate readers and scholars alike. A cornerstone of Victorian travel literature and outsider narrative. Some minor rubbing, slipcase starting to split along top edges, else in good + condition. Item #23
Price: $75.00