History of the Conquest of Peru, with a Preliminary View of the Civilization of the Incas. 2-vol. set (Complete)
New York: Harper and Brothers, 1847 (Vol. 1); 1848 (Vol. 2). First edition. Hardcover. Quarto (9 3/4 x 6 1/2"). xl, [2], 527, [1]pp (Vol. 1); xix, [3], 547, [1]pp (Vol. 2). Original full calf, with gilt lettered leather titles to spines. Marbled endpapers. Tissue-guarded engraved frontispiece portrait of Francisco Pizarro (Vol. 1), and Pedro de la Gasca (Vol. 2).
First edition, first issue with period missing after the word 'integrity' on page 467 in volume II, this set includes an engraved map of upper northwest coastline of South America (Vol. 1), and a facsimile plate of Pizarro's handwriting (Vol. 2).
In "History of the Conquest of Peru," William H. Prescott continues his vivid chronicle of Spanish exploits in the New World. The book’s commanding vision of Pizarro’s tumultuous overthrow of the Inca empire has secured its reputation as a classic in the literature of Latin American history.
‘History of the Conquest of Peru represents an author’s triumph over his materials,’ observed Donald G. Darnell, one of the historian’s several biographers. ‘Prescott exploits to the fullest any opportunities for dramatic effects that history might provide him... If there is one [distinguishing] feature of the Conquest of Peru... it is the portrayal of the Spanish character, that striking fusion of courage, cruelty, pride, and gallows humor... We seem to be overhearing dialogue and observing firsthand the interaction between the Spaniards as they struggle for control of an empire... Although Peru lacks a noble protagonist... it is still an immensely readable history. The description of the Inca civilization, particularly its wealth, the precise explanation of the cause of the conflict between the conquerors, and the depiction of the Spanish character - these together with the careful research, the sheer abundance of anecdotes, and the exploitation of primary materials all contribute to the history’s continuing popularity.’
Bindings rubbed and somewhat partly darkened. Moderate to heavy foxing throughout first volume, and sporadic foxing to second volume. Page 261-262 repaired at lower fore-edge and lower margin (not affecting lettering). Bindings in overall fair, interior in fair to good condition. f to g. Item #45121
Price: $150.00