The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. By Robert Louis Stevenson. Illustrated by Edward A. Wilson. Collector’s Edition. Easton Press. Norwalk, 1980.

Robert Louis Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, first published in 1886, is perhaps his most popular work. It is a Gothic novella widely regarded as one of the best from the period, alongside Dracula and A Picture of Dorian Gray. Its main character(s)–Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde–established the concept of split personalities in literature. First sold in England as a penny dreadful, the work quickly became popular with Victorian readers who were intrigued by its moral themes, explorations of human nature, and its plying criticisms of public versus private personas. It remains one of the best works of fiction from the era, a fact recognized in this edition. It is part of Easton Press’s 100 Greatest Books Ever Written series. It also contains spectacular illustrations by Edward A. Wilson.

This collector’s edition is in fine condition. In the original full maroon leather, finely gilt stamped. Raised bands. Gilt spine label. Text block fine. Gilt edges. Silk moire endpapers and bookmark sewn in.

A handsome collector’s copy of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.