The Violet Fairy Book

5b edited by Andrew Lang, numerous illustrations by H. J. Ford, London: Longmans, Green, and Co. 1901

Notes

The Violet Fairy Book, published in 1901, is one of the twelve volumes in Andrew Lang's Rainbow Fairy Book series. This collection features a variety of folk tales and fairy stories from different cultures, including tales from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. As with other volumes in the series, Lang's editorial expertise is evident in his careful selection of stories that capture the magic, mystery, and morals of traditional folklore. The stories in The Violet Fairy Book are filled with magical creatures, brave heroes, and wise figures, offering readers both adventure and life lessons. Some of the tales include stories of enchanted animals, magical transformations, and epic quests, reflecting the rich diversity of global folk traditions.

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

Purple marbled boards with three quarter purple 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. Some sun fading to the spine, otherwise pristine condition.