The Canterbury Tales
Geoffrey Chaucer
📚 Genre
Classic Literature, Poetry, Middle English Literature
🏢 Publisher
Easton Press
📅 Publication Year
Circa 1978-2000 (Based on the 'Collector's Library of Famous Editions')
🔢 ISBN
N/A (Generally no ISBN on spine for Easton Press editions)
About This Book
A collection of 24 stories written in Middle English during the 14th century, presented here as part of a pilgrimage to Canterbury. The stories are told by a group of pilgrims who engage in a storytelling contest. The spine shown is dark green genuine leather with 22kt gold accents, silk moiré endpapers (implied), and hubbed spines.
Book Details
Language
Modern English translation (Likely the 1934 translation by John Tatlock and Percy MacKaye)
Pages
Approximately 450-600 pages
Edition
Collector's Edition, Bound in Genuine Leather
Series
Part of 'The 100 Greatest Books Ever Written' or 'The Collector's Library of Famous Editions'
Target Audience
Adult, Academic, Collectors of Fine Bindings
Collector Information
Condition
Very Good. The leather and gold gilding on the spine appear vibrant with minimal scuffing. No visible sun-bleaching or major leather deterioration.
Estimated Value
$35.00 - $65.00
Rarity
Common. While Easton Press books are high-quality, 'The Canterbury Tales' is one of their most widely produced titles and is frequently available on the secondary market.
Historical Significance
A foundational work of English literature; Chaucer is often called the Father of English Literature. This work was instrumental in legitimizing the use of the Middle English vernacular.
Collector Notes
Check for 'foxing' on the top gilt edges and ensure the silk ribbon hasn't frayed or bled color into the pages. To preserve, keep away from direct sunlight and high humidity. Value is highest when the 'Collector's Notes' insert is still included.
Similar Books
The Decameron by Giovanni Boccaccio, Paradise Lost by John Milton, The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri
Notable Features
Bound in genuine leather, 22kt gold decorations, hubbed spine, archival quality paper, satin ribbon page marker.