The Red Romance Book

5C edited by Andrew Lang, illustrations by H. J. Ford, London: Longmans, Green, and Co. 1905

Notes

The Red Romance Book was edited by Andrew Lang and published in 1905. This volume is part of his series of anthologies, which includes a range of works focused on particular themes, such as romance and adventure. The Red Romance Book compiles a selection of stories and tales from various cultures, centered around the themes of love, honor, and heroic deeds, with a focus on romantic and chivalric adventures. The stories in this collection explore themes of courtly love, heroic quests, and valorous knights, with tales drawn from ancient mythologies, legends, and literary traditions.

Like his other works, Lang's Red Romance Book showcases his skill in bringing together a wide array of cultural narratives while making them accessible and enjoyable for a general audience, particularly younger readers. The book contains stories that are filled with daring deeds, passionate love, and the struggles between good and evil. This collection is a testament to Lang's interest in both history and storytelling, combining his scholarly interests with his passion for literature aimed at children and young adults.

Andrew Lang (1844–1912) was a Scottish writer, poet, and scholar who made significant contributions to the preservation and popularization of world folklore. Known primarily for his Rainbow Fairy Books, Lang compiled folk tales from a variety of cultures, translating and adapting them for young readers. He was also a prolific author in other genres, including anthropology, history, and literature, and his works had a lasting impact on children's literature. Lang’s scholarly background, particularly in the field of anthropology, influenced his ability to collect and present these fairy tales in a way that highlighted their cultural origins while making them accessible to a broad audience.

Description

Red canvas boards with three quarter red leather. Five raised bands with gilt embossed elements in each compartment except the second and third which showcases gilt lettering. Marbled endpapers. Many illustrations throughout. Eight colored plates. Gilt top edge. Pristine condition.