Halloween 2020

H i s t o r y , P h i l o s o p h y & R e l i g i o n 50 Fine New Acquisitions H alloween 2020 A Pioneering Work In Psychiatry 48. CHEYNE, George. The English Malady: or, a Treatise of Nervous Diseases of all Kinds. London, 1733. Octavo, modern full dark brown morocco. $2700. Click for more info First edition of one of the most influential early books on what was to become the discipline of psychiatry, probably the most widely read and influential English language book on the subject in the 18th century. “Cheyne’s term‘Englishmalady’ refers todepression, the causes ofwhichCheyne listed as moist air, the variable English climate, too much meat and alcohol, sedentary habits and overcrowding. Among the clinical illustrations Cheyne included his own case, which he cured by purges, a milk and vegetable diet and the study of religious writings. Cheyne’s work inspired an interest in England in exploring the metaphysical relationship between mind and body” (Norman 471). Cheyne was a celebrated and popular young London physician, and this, his most enduring work, “was highly eulogized by Samuel Johnson, who had much reason to be a good judge of such a work” (DNB). Early owner signature on title page, also on dedication page and first page of table of contents. Moderate foxing to text, morocco binding attractive and fine.