Discovering the Timeless Charm of Gulliver's Travels
- rick5279
- Jun 6
- 4 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
Jonathan Swift looks on as Rick Barron proudly holds the 1726-27 two-volume, four-part set of Swift's classic Gulliver's Travels.
Travels Into Several Remote Nations of the World. In Four Parts by Lemuel Gulliver, First a Surgeon, and then a Captain of Several Ships. Barron Rare Books has recently listed this important 1726 First Edition (Vol. I) + 1727 “Second Edition Corrected” (Vol. II) published by Benjamin Motte, London. With Portrait and Six Maps.
A Glimpse into Literary History
A compelling mixed-issue set of Swift’s satirical masterpiece, this collection comprises a FIRST EDITION, Teerink AA, of Volume I (1726) and a “Second Edition, corrected” Volume II dated 1727. Motte’s important early revised printing contains roughly one hundred textual adjustments. This honest, unsophisticated pair in contemporary calf is complete with the engraved portrait and all six maps or plans.
Bibliographic Description
Two octavo volumes. Published in London by Benjamin Motte, 1726–27.
Volume I:
First Edition, Teerink AA (one of the earliest obtainable states), issued mid-November 1726.
Engraved frontispiece portrait of Gulliver, Teerink’s Second State, with inscription around the oval and Latin motto on the tablet below.
Printed on laid paper with vertical chain lines; portrait bound facing the Part I title, as called for.
Illustrated with four maps, two plans, and numerous wood-engraved head- and tailpieces.
Each of the four parts has separate pagination.
Correct first-edition readings present, including:
- Part I, p. 17, l. 22: “Potion”
- Part I, p. 35, l. 5: “Subsidues.” These are among the classic points identifying early Motte printings.
Volume II:
Title page dated 1727, bearing the statement “The Second Edition, Corrected.”
As noted by Hubbard (pp. 127–128), this is Motte’s fourth overall edition, though styled “second,” and represents the first meaningful revision of Swift’s text.
Swift himself later complained that he had not read proofs for the 1726 printings and that the text had been “mangled.” Motte’s 1727 issue incorporates numerous small corrections — roughly a hundred — marking the earliest substantive editorial intervention in the novel’s publication history.
Condition: Contemporary calf boards, expertly rebacked with later matching calf spines and leather labels, all edges-stained red. Early ink ownership on front flyleaf of Vol. I. Boards have gently rounded fore-corners and abraded surfaces. Occasional light foxing and/or soling to text, but very good overall. Vol. I is a first edition, second state (Teerink no. 290: first edition state AA), with all titles, typos, pagination, and signatures as called for. Vol. II is second edition (Teerink no. 293), with all titles, typos, omissions, pagination, and signatures as called for, including "The Second Edition, corrected" on the title-page and the facing page of Motte advertisements. A sound, complete, and appealingly unsophisticated set, showing the honest patina of nearly three centuries.
Notes on Publication History
Teerink’s AA issue of Volume I — one of the earliest obtainable states — was released in mid-November 1726. This was part of the extraordinary publishing rush that saw five editions of Gulliver’s Travels appear between 1726 and 1727 (three octavos in 1726, one octavo and one duodecimo in 1727), all under Motte’s imprint. The 1727 “Second Edition, Corrected” is bibliographically significant. It is the first printing to incorporate Swift’s own post-publication corrections, making this mixed set a fascinating snapshot of the novel’s earliest textual evolution.
A Strong, Bibliographically Interesting Pair
While mixed sets are not uncommon, this combination — Teerink AA for Volume I paired with Motte’s corrected 1727 Volume II — offers both the immediacy of the true first edition and the author-driven textual refinements of the following year. This is a desirable set for collectors who appreciate the complex early printing history of Swift’s most enduring work. You will find it at a fair price right now on BarronRareBooks.com.
The Allure of Collecting Rare Books
Collecting rare books is more than just a hobby; it's a journey through time. Each book tells a story, not just through its content but through its very existence. We often find ourselves captivated by the history behind the pages. The thrill of discovering a first edition or a unique printing can be exhilarating.
The Joy of Ownership
Owning a piece of literary history, such as this set of Gulliver's Travels, brings a sense of pride. It connects us to the past and allows us to appreciate the craftsmanship of earlier times. We can almost hear the whispers of the authors as we turn the pages.
Building a Collection
When building a collection, we should consider the significance of each piece. Does it have a unique story? How does it fit into the larger narrative of literary history? Each addition to our collection should resonate with us personally.
Caring for Your Collection
Proper care for our books is essential. We should store them in a climate-controlled environment, away from direct sunlight. Regularly checking for signs of wear or damage can help preserve their condition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the mixed-issue set of Gulliver's Travels is not just a collection of books; it’s a portal to the past. We invite you to explore this remarkable set and consider adding it to your collection. The world of rare books awaits, filled with stories and treasures just waiting to be discovered.
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