Magnalia Christi Americana: Or, The Ecclesiastical History Of New-England, From Its First Planting In The Year 1620, Unto The Year Of Our Lord 1698

Folio, recently rebound in calf, consists of 7 books in one volume, folding map (linen-backed), [30], map, 38, [2], 75, 238, [2], 128-222, 100, 88, 118, [4] pp. As usual, lacking errata leaves, and first two blanks, left half of map made up in facsimile, first signature A (AN ATTESTATION, which should be bound after the title page is placed before the map) is bound incorrectly after D (per Church and Holmes). All preliminaries are present. Minor marginal annotations, dampstaining affecting upper inner quarter of the first three books, some chips and folds in corners, occasional soiling, and wax remnant on title, leaves 6L2 and 6L3 with smaller margins, apparently taken from another copy; modern bookplate tipped in on front pastedown. First ad leaf out of register and trim, the other worn and extended at the inner margin, both with slight loss of text. Handsomely rebound in full panel calf, sewn endbands, title label on spine. The first edition of Cotton Mather's (1663-1728) Magnalia Christi Americana has long been regarded as the most famous work produced during the colonial period. It contains a wealth of information on a broad range of subjects, and gives the reader a clear picture of colonial life. Of particular interest is his discussion of the Salem Witch trails, for which he challenges some of the methods used, and seems to be distancing himself from those events. Some historians would argue he played a not insignificant role in what happened in Salem. Other highlights include his discussion of the development of Harvard College, and the escape of Hannah Duston (1657-1736) from the Indians. Extra postage may be required.