Foxe's Book of Martyrs

6B John Foxes, M.A. General History of Persecution. London: Henry Fisher, ca.1830.

Notes

Foxe’s Book of Martyrs, first published in 1563 by John Foxe, is a Protestant history of Christian martyrs, focusing particularly on those persecuted during the reign of Catholic monarchs in England. Originally titled Actes and Monuments, the book was written to inspire Protestant faith and recount the courage of those who died for their beliefs. It includes detailed accounts of early Christian martyrs, the struggles of the English Reformation, and the executions under Queen Mary I, known as “Bloody Mary.”

Widely read during the 16th and 17th centuries, it became a cornerstone of English Protestant identity. Its vivid, often harrowing narratives of persecution and martyrdom aimed to highlight the virtues of Protestantism and the perceived tyranny of Catholic rule. The book’s influence extended beyond religion, shaping English history, literature, and culture. Though its accuracy has been debated, Foxe’s Book of Martyrs remains a significant historical and theological work, reflecting the religious tensions of its time.

Description

Large brown leather spine with marble boards. Five raised bands on spine. Gilt lettering to spine. Fully intact. Illustrated. Very good condition.

Dimensions: 11 x 9 x 2 inches