ARISTOTLE (384-332 BCE). A Treatise on Government. Translated from the Greek of Aristotle. William Ellis, translator. London: T. Payne, 1776.
4to (267 x 206 mm). (Light marginal toning and occasional spotting, small stain to title-page.) Contemporary marbled boards (rebacked, fore-corners worn, covers toned and rubbed).
FIRST EDITION TO BE TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH FROM THE ORIGINAL GREEK. Ellis's translation was the first to bring Aristotle’s foundational political philosophy to a broader English-speaking audience. Among its notable owners was Thomas Jefferson, who, according to scholars, was profoundly influenced by classical philosophy and specifically referenced Aristotle as a source in drafting the Declaration of Independence. Brunet I:459; ESTC T134079; Lowndes I:68 ("A faithful and perspicuous version").
This lot is located in Chicago.
