Lot 169
Diderot, Denis
Auction: 16 May 2008 at 12:00 BST
Description
Jacques le fataliste et son maitre. Paris: Buisson, An cinquième de la République, [1796]. First edition, 2 volumes, 8vo, half-titles, with the certificate of authenticity signed by Buisson on verso of first half-title, early 19th century paper boards, spines renewed and tooled to period style, one or two spots and stains
Footnote
Note: Tchemerzine II, 965.
The most important work of Diderot's later years, inspired by Tristram Shandy which it resembles in structure and style. Jacques, like Diderot himself, is 'an indefatigable talker', unlike his Master, whose conversation bubbles over with ideas, enthusiasm and coarse gaiety. As an exposition of fatalism the novel complements Diderot's philosophical writings.