Vol. I: [T.p., dedic.] - The Preface - The Index - [Text, books 1-5]. - Vol. II: [T.p.] - The Contents Of The Second Volume - Erratum - [Text, books 6-17] - An Index To The Second Volume - [advertisement].
Responsibility Note
The folding map is signed as engraved by T. Kitchin.
'This new edition' (the second?) of the translation is dedicated by the translator, James Hampton, to Robert Lord Henley, Baron of Grainge, Lord High Chancellor (who in 1764 was made Earl of Northington).
References
ESTC, T117894 (vol. I); T152790 (vol. II).
Summary Note
The second volume carries the imprint, 'Printed for T. Davies, in Russel-street, Covent-Garden'.
Himself a hostage of the Romans, and at the same time a friend of some of Rome's leading figures, Polybius wished to investigate 'by which means and under which system of government' the Romans had come in so short a space of time - from the beginning of the first Punic War in 264 B.C. to the destruction of Carthage and Corinth in 146 - to be masters of the whole Mediterranean world. To explain this he emphasises qualities of character - such as moderation, integrity, valour, discipline and frugality. Though he himself watched Roman soldiers using famous paintings as draughts-boards after the sack of Corinth, and mentions the immense booty of art works which flowed into Rome at this period, he has in general little to say about art and architecture; but provides an important record of political and military events.
Provenance
Acquired between 1772 and 1802. Recorded in RAA Library, Catalogue, 1802.
Copy Note
Imperfect: lacks the final advertisement leaf of volume II.
Binding Note
19th-century calf, red paper-covered boards; red morocco spine labels lettered 'History Of Polybius', spines lettered 'Vol. I. (II.) R.A.'
Subject
Romans - Mediterranean Region - Italy - Rome - History - 3rd century B.C. - 2nd century B.C.
Greek literature - 2nd century B.C.
Translations into English - Translations from Greek - Great Britain - 18th century