The Gentle Shepherd, A Scots Pastoral Comedy, Allan Ramsay, John Robertson, Glasgow, 1758

Allan Ramsay’s The Gentle Shepherd is a cornerstone of 18th‑century Scottish literature, widely celebrated as the nation’s first major pastoral drama. First performed in 1725, the play combines rustic humour, romantic intrigue, and a vivid portrayal of Lowland rural life, written in a rich Scots dialect that captures the cultural voice of its era. Its enduring popularity lies in its ability to balance literary refinement with folk authenticity, influencing both the Scottish Enlightenment’s literary culture and later poets such as Robert Burns.

This 1758 Glasgow edition, printed by John Robertson Jr., is an appealing example of an early provincial printing, adorned with five engraved plates illustrating each act, along with musical overtures to the songs and a complete Scots glossary. Surviving examples of mid‑18th‑century Glasgow editions are increasingly scarce, especially with the full complement of plates present, as these popular pocket editions were often heavily read and imperfectly preserved. While this copy shows age and wear—with a weak binding, lower loss to the title page, and expected marks of use—it remains a desirable and characterful survivor, offering insight into Scotland’s early literary heritage and book trade.

The Gentle Shepherd, A Scots Pastoral Comedy. By Allan Ramsay. Adorned with Cuts, the Overtures to the Songs, and a Complete Glossary.

Printed for John Robertson junr. Bookseller at Shakespear's head, in the Saltmercat, Glasgow, 1758. A scarce, early edition.

A fair hardback bound in full contemporary calf leather. Covers are worn and rubbed, with front cover almost detached - only weakly held by one binding cord, and the rear cover joint also only weakly held by the cords. First pastedown with previous owner's inscription dated to 1814.  The title page is missing 3-4cm at the lower edge. Main wording on the titles has the appearance of being overwritten by hand - perhaps the original red ink used on these words was fading?)

Text is age-toned, with usage marks and scattered stains and spotting throughout. Nonetheless an interesting early edition of this work, and enhanced by the 5 attractive Plates which illustrate each act.

Text in English/Scots.

xv + (1) + 139pp + 5 Plates.

Dimensions: Approximately 175mm high x 109mm wide x 13mm deep.

Weight approximately 208g unpacked.