Jane Eyre. By Charlotte Bronte. Illustrations by Barnett Freedman. Collector’s Edition. Easton Press. Norwalk, 1978.

First published in 1847, Jane Eyre helped to define Victorian literature for the rest of the century. Its Bildungsroman structure, gothic elements, romantic considerations, and first-person narration are comparable to other great English works by authors such as Jane Austen or Charles Dickens. Initially, Jane Eyre saw a range of critical reviews, but over the decades, they crystallized into high praise, elevating the work and Charlotte Bronte to the forefront of the English literary canon. Alongside Wuthering Heights, it is considered the masterpiece of the Bronte sisters’ works. This collector’s edition recognizes the important status of Jane Eyre as one of “The 100 Greatest Books Ever Written” series. It also pairs the text with Barnett Freedman’s brilliant lithographs. For any collector of great English literature, it is a crucial volume.

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

A fine collector’s copy of Jane Eyre.