The Pilgrim’s Progress From This World to that Which if to Come; Delivered under the Similitude of a Dream: Wherein is Discovered the Manner of his Setting Out, His Dangerous Journey and Safe Arrival at the Desired Country: Containing the Pilgrimage of His Wife and Children, and Also Their Safe Arrival.

BUNYAN, John.

Item Number: 133047

London: Printed for Thomas Kelly, 1813.

First Thomas Kelly edition of one of the most significant works of theological fiction in English literature. Octavo, bound in three quarter contemporary calf over marbled boards with gilt titles and tooling to the spine, additional engraved title and frontispiece, illustrated with engravings. In very good condition. Period ownership inscription. Rare.

First published in 1678, John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress remains one of the most significant works of theological fiction in English literature, as well as one of the progenitors of the narrative aspect of Christian media. It has been translated into more than 200 languages, and has never been out of print. It appeared in Dutch in 1681, in German in 1703 and in Swedish in 1727. The first North American edition was issued in 1681. Bunyan began his work while in the Bedfordshire county prison for violations of the Conventicle Act of 1664, which prohibited the holding of religious services outside the auspices of the established Church of England.