Second edition of Terences Comoediae, published by the French humanist and printer Robert Estienne (1503-1599). Publius Terentius Afer, (also known as Terence, ca. 195-ca. 159 BCE) was a Roman playwright of North African origin and one of the foremost authors of Latin comedy. The present work includes the commentary of Aelius Donatus (4th century CE), based on a manuscript provided by Estiennes father-in-law, Josse Bade (1462-1535). Donatus was a Roman grammarian and teacher of rhetoric, best known for his grammatical works, Ars Minor and Ars Maior. Building on Estiennes earlier 1529 folio edition, this one was printed in the new Roman types and divided into acts and scenes, a notable innovation. In addition, Estienne incorporated Erasmus treatise on comedic metres, which provided a scholarly analysis of the rhythmic and metric structures of classical comedies, enhancing readers understanding of Terences original cadence and comedic effect.
The boards are severely rubbed, light foxing and staining throughout, the title page is very slightly browned, the head margin is cut slightly short. Otherwise in good condition. Adams T 326; BM STC French p. 416; De Reuck 512; Inventaire chronologique des editions Parisiennes du XVIe siecle V, 314; Renouard (Estienne) I, 43 no. 15; Schreiber 52; USTC 147028 (9 copies); Vander Haeghen II, 55.