Volumes 1 and II, presumed first editions 1916. Published by Humphrey Milford at the Clarendon Press, Oxford and printed in England at the Oxford University Press in the Tercentenary Year. Blue hardbacks with gilt insignia to cover and decorated edged title. Decoration and gilt lettering to spine. Volume 1 contains 506 pages and Volume II has 610 pages. Both volumes very well preserved, privately owned with no marks of ownership and from the library of a retired Oxford Professor. Both have pristine tissue guards at frontispiece images. Original thick, rough cut page edges, a few uncut.
These volumes embrace the detailed accounts of life and manners in Shakespeare's era, covering a wide range of topics including London life, architecture, the fine arts, heraldry, customs, the arts and actors, homes and interiors, music and theatre, sports and of course the stage, theatre, plays and poetry. Also covers the Royal Navy, the Army, Shakespeare's English, and even rogues and vagabonds. Beautifully illustrated throughout with many picture plates. Includes full index and glossary.
A rare and splendid set of two volumes, wonderful survivors and full of character of the era, and a delightful addition to any library specialising in the world of Shakespeare.