Théocrite - Les idylles - 1688

[THEOCRITE]. Theocritus’ idylls translated from Greek into French verse. With Remarks.
Paris, Aubouin, Emery, Clouzier, 1688; large in-12, full calf, spine with raised bands ornamented, gilt roulette on the covers, speckled edges.
3 leaves, 52 pp., 468 pp., 3 leaves (table and privilege). Work adorned with a frontispiece.

Original edition of the translation of 15 idylls of Theocritus by Hilaire-Bernard de Requeleyne, baron de Longepierre, with the Greek text on the facing page. Longepierre, born in Dijon in 1659 and died in 1731, was secretary of the commands of the Duke of Berry. He enjoyed at that time a great reputation as a poet and translator. He is also credited with translations of Anacreon and Sappho (1684), of Bion and Moschus (1686), as well as various writings on antiquity (see his Discours sur les Anciens, 1687).

The idylls of Theocritus, full of that inimitable Ionian charm, were one of the main sources of inspiration for Virgil’s Bucolics. They concern nymphs, shepherds, Cyclopes, that is to say many characters and places from ancient mythology. The scenes are sometimes bucolic, sometimes more sorrowful, always graceful.

The notes added to the text by Longepierre attest to his great erudition and provide useful information. They magnificently illustrate the influence that Theocritus would exert on the poets who followed in his wake (Juvenal, Virgil, Racine, etc.).

The pieces are preceded by a comparison between Theocritus and Virgil, as well as a life of Theocritus. Headings, drop caps and tail-pieces. Greek text and French translation on facing pages.

Head and tail edges torn, first binding hinge split at the top, binding rubbed, two corners pierced. Interior fresh. Copy still solid.
Cioranescu, 43627.