"HIS UTOPIA IS ALARMING AND HIS METAPHYSICS ARE INTOXICATING": PLATO’S REPUBLIC, HANDSOMELY BOUND

PLATO. The Republic of Plato Translated into English, with an Analysis and Notes, by John Llewelyn Davies, M.S. and David James Vaughan, M.A. London: Macmillan and Co., 1925. Small octavo, contemporary full dark brown morocco gilt, raised bands, covers and spine with gilt quatrefoil pattern, silk moire endpapers, all edges gilt. $2800.

Golden Treasury Series edition of the greatest of Plato’s dialogues, handsomely bound by Ramage of London.

The Republic, Plato's extended dialogue on Justice and the nature of the ideal state, is a cornerstone of Western philosophy and politics. "Its setting and its characters are full of political meaning. Its arguments are tantalizing and its fables fascinating… [Plato's] utopia is alarming and his metaphysics are intoxicating" (Levi, 348). The Republic "has reinforced dedication, awakened vocations to leadership and strengthened the morale of those modest and competent souls who are always in reality the guardians of society" (Rexroth, 79). This edition is a Golden Treasury Series reprint of the 1852 "exact and scholarly" translation by John Llewelyn Davies and David James Vaughan (DNB).

A fine, very attractive copy.