Aristotle's Politiques (London 1598)
Aristotle's Politiques is a collection of past works from both Aristotle and Plato that was published in 1598 in London by Adam Islip. The text was translated multiple times from Greek to French and finally English for this publication. The French translation was previously written by Loys le Roy also known as Regius and the English translation was completed by John Dee. The compilation of these texts were gathered across “The most renowned empires, kingdoms, seignories and commonwealths whereof the knowledge could be had in writing, or by faithfull report…” highlighting the diverse nature and rediscovery of these ancient ideas. These ideas themselves revolve around Aristotle’s ideas of government and examinations of Greek city-states representing both philosophical and empirical observations of society. The book compiles a broad ranging and comprehensive commentary and analysis with topics ranging from human nature, the role of households, constitutions, and governments to justice, individuals, and other philosophical foundations.
Publisher Context
Adam Islip was a London publisher during the late 16th and early 17th centuries.[1] His printer device can be found on the title page of this book and he was an Apprentice and member of Stationers’ Co which still exists today.[2] Islip appears to have published many books during this time period in addition to artwork and prints. These woodcuts were often made of previous original engravings. He’s published works from a broad range of content including poems from Geoffrey Chaucer and portraits of kings.[3]
Translator Context
French Translation
The French Translator Loys Le Roy, also known as Regius was a translator and classicist at the College Royal. He first published and translated to French a commented version of Aristotle’s politiques as a member of Michel de Vascosan’s workshop in Paris 1568. This publication was significant as it served as the reference text for many of Aristotle’s ideas until the end of the eighteenth century.Cite error: Closing </ref> missing for <ref> tag