The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri Value Guide

This 1948 edition of The Divine Comedy is a prized collectible that pairs Lawrence Grant White's translation with the legendary 19th-century engravings of Gustave Doré. It represents a significant mid-century printing of Dante's 14th-century epic, capturing the definitive visual journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven.

What affects the value of The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri?

• The overall condition of the cloth binding, including the presence of any shelf wear, fading, or fraying.
• The internal state of the pages, specifically looking for foxing, yellowing, or tears that affect the Doré illustrations.
• Completeness of the work, as missing plates or damaged engravings will significantly reduce the $80 market value.
• The presence of a dust jacket, if originally issued, which can provide a premium over the standard cloth-bound price.

How to Identify The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri?

• Confirm the 1948 publication date and the specific translation credited to Lawrence Grant White.
• Ensure the volume contains the full suite of Gustave Doré engravings, which are central to this edition's identity.
• Check for the original cloth binding and Italian origin markings as specified in the 1948 production details.
• Verify that the paper quality and ink density match mid-century printing standards for high-quality literary editions.

History of The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri

Dante Alighieri's 'The Divine Comedy' is an epic poem written between 1308 and 1320, considered one of the greatest works of world literature. It recounts Dante's journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven. Gustave Doré's iconic engravings, first published in 1861, have become the definitive visual representation of Dante's work, profoundly influencing how generations have imagined these realms.