Augustine Birrell — Obiter Dicta

New York, Charles Scribner's Son, 1888. First edition. Leather. Two volumes of critical essay from English politician Augustine Birrell, discussing many of the major contributors to the English literary cannon. A complete two volume edition of this work of literary criticism from British Liberal party politician Augustine Birrell, in smart half calf bindings. A barrister by training, Birrell was also an author, noted for humorous essays. He first found success as a writer with this volume of essay, with volume one first published in 1884, and volume two in 1887. Despite their titles, these works were not about law, instead discussing the work of Milton, Pope, Johnson, Burke, Charles Lamb, Carlyle and Robert Browning.In 1924, following a tumultuous political career as Chief Secretary for Ireland between 1907 and 1916, Birrell returned to this project and published 'More Obiter Dicta&apos. In half calf bindings, with gilt detailing to back strips and marbled paper covered boards. Rubbing to joints, with loss to head of volume I back strip, and rubbing to board perimeters. Front hinge of volume II starting, with board holding firm. Internally, firmly bound. Pages clean and bright. Very Good . Ill.: None. Very Good .