8vo. [4], 343pp, [5]. With two terminal leaves of publisher's advertisements. Uncut in original publisher's drab paper boards, recently rebacked in calf, contrasting calf lettering-pieces. Board rubbed and marked. Recent typed booksellers description and bookplate of Dennis Douglas to FEP, scattered spotting.

The first edition of artist William Hazlitt's (1778-1830) series of lectures delivered at the Surrey Institution in Blackfriars Road. This was the first critical history of English comedy, and included analysis of the distinction between wit and humour, Shakespeare and Ben Jonson, Restoration comedy, the English novelists, and the paintings of Hogarth.