First edition. With a biographical introduction to Tyrtaeus in English [by James Moor], the Greek text, notes on the text, and the Latin text taken from Stephens edition of 1579. With half-titles to the Greek and Latin texts. Illustrated with two engravings.

8vo., contemporary calf with gilt panel, spine with red leather label, panelled in gilt with gilt centre tools. Pp. xxvii, [5], 20, [3], 22-30. Binding rubbed, water stain to first and last few leaves. A good copy of a scarce Foulis Press title.

Tyrtaeus was a Greek elegiac poet from Sparta. He wrote at a time of two crises affecting the city: a civic unrest threatening the authority of kings and elders, later recalled in a poem named Eunomia ('Law and Order') where he reminded citizens to respect the divine and constitutional roles of kings, council, and demos; and the Second Messenian War, during which he served as a sort of 'state poet', exhorting Spartans to fight to the death for their city.

This book contains a patriotic dedication to “The young gentlemen lately bred at the University of Glasgow; at present serving their country as officers of the Highland Battalions now in America”. The 42nd Highland Regiment (later The Black Watch) was engaged in the French and Indian War in America.

Gaskell 376; ESTC T136314