Character, by Samuel Smiles, John Murray, 1897

Samuel Smiles (1812–1904) was a Scottish author and social reformer best known for promoting self-help and moral improvement. His 1871 book Character followed the success of Self-Help (1859) and focused on the importance of integrity, perseverance, and moral strength in personal and national life. In Character, Smiles argued that virtues such as honesty, duty, and self-discipline were the foundation of true success, more than wealth or intellect. He believed strong character built strong societies. The book reflects Victorian ideals of individual responsibility and became influential in shaping middle-class values in Britain and beyond during the late 19th century.

Character, by Samuel Smiles, LL.D. 

Published by John Murray, London, 1897. 'Popular Edition' (first published c. 1860)..

A good full polished calf leather hardback with some wear and bumping. With gilt borders to covers and 'Edinburgh Institution' gilt roundel to front. Raised bands and gilt tooled decoration to spine. The title label now absent. Prize binding with prsentation l;abel dated to 1899 on the first pastedown. Marbled endpapers. Front inner hinge split to gutter after first free endpaper, but all still bound.

Text is bright and clean throughout. Marbled edges to text block.

Text in English.

xii + 388pp.

Weight: approximately 364g (unpacked). 

Dimensions:

Approximately 185mm tall x 125mm wide x 30mm deep.