Bibliotheca Classica; Or, A Classical Dictionary, Containing A Full Account Of All The Proper Names Mentioned In Antient Authors. To Which Are Subjoined, Tables Of Coins, Weights, And Measures, In Use Among The Greeks And Romans. LempriÈRe, John.

First edition. "Lemprière's dictionary is a remarkable achievement for an undergrauate of twenty-three. It has remained popular because it is so readable; the factual information it contains is more accurately recorded elsewhere but his concise accounts (particularly those of mythological characters), with their elegant phrasing and ironic wit, often recall th etome of his older contemporary, Edward Gibbon" (ODNB). "'Lemprières Classical Dictionary' is a new kind of manual: the rendering of a body of knowledge not easily accessible in any other form into a series of alphabetical articles for the use of those who lack the time or the learning to seek out the sources. Dictionaries, literary, geographical and biographical there had been, and encyclopaedias; but Lemprière's is the first specialist work designed as a substitute for, rather than as an aid to, learning. It was in fact an early 'cram-book', 'this book being undertaken more particularly for the use of schools', according to the preface. But what started as a popularizing medium has since become a valued and respected part of the literary scene." (PMM). Printing and the Mind of Man 236. Octavo (213 x 132 mm). Contemporary half calf and marble boards, flat spine with gilt roll division in compartments, compartments decorated in blind, direct lettered in gilt, blue sprinkled edges. Ownership inscription dated 1852 to front pastedown with ink note to front free endpaper, some very light spotting; a very good copy in an attractive binding.