230. (Rotarides Mihály): Historiae Hungaricae literariae antiqui...

... medii atque recentioris aevi lineamenta quorum prolegomena... in... introductionem continentia prodeunt studio ac sumtu H. M. Hungari
Altonaviae et Servestae, 1745. (Burmester ny.) XVI+224p.
This is one of the most significant early pieces of the developing Hungarian literary and cultural history writing. Like Czvittinger's Specimen, a Hungarian self-consciousness and a desire for national self-affirmation led Rotarides to prove the European quality of Hungarian literature in Latin to the world. His first systematic, domestic literary history would have discussed the origins of language and literacy, the development of literacy in the various regions of the country, the importance of institutions (universities, schools etc.) as well as essential authors and works in four parts. His data collection remained in manuscript form - only this preface had been printed (at the instigation of Mátyás Bél). In this, he outlines the structure and principles of his planned work and introduces the notable figures of Hungarian science, literature, and the arts.
19th-century half leather. Spine gilt.
Apponyi: 2850.; VD18 10229159.
 
Starting price: 30,000 Ft