Ode on the Death of the Duke of Wellington.
1852. London: Edward Moxon, 1852.
Thin 8vo, 16 pp. Original stitched blue paper wrappers, with maroon string. Two water stains on front cover, minor foxing and strain to hinges; good.
§ The first edition, and the first independent publication of Tennyson’s after being appointed poet laureate by Queen Victoria. "His Ode on the Death of the Duke of Wellington (published on the day of the funeral, 18 November 1852) is a noble four-square paean, much called on in later years when a great national loss has been felt, as at the death of Winston Churchill. Written, Tennyson insisted, from genuine admiration of the man, it was a true laureate ode, though not requested by the queen." (DNB). Item #107505
Price: $245.00