Books and Manuscripts

Bell, Currer (Charlotte Bronte)
The Professor, A Tale
London: Smith, Elder & Co., 1857. In two volumes. First edition. 8vo. viii, 294, 2 (ads); (iv), 258, (2) pp.; with half-title in each volume; without 16 pp. ads at rear of second volume (Smith notes this may not be found in all copies). Three-quarter crimson morocco over red linen-covered boards, stamped in gilt; top edges gilt; marbled endpapers; by Bayntun; scattered light spotting to text in each volume. Parrish, p. 96; Sadleir 347; Smith 7; Symington, p. 40

First edition of Charlotte Bronte's first novel. Originally written in 1846, The Professor dramatizes Charlotte's own time as a student and teacher in Brussels in the early 1840s. The book was repeatedly rejected by numerous publishers throughout 1847, but was more warmly received by publisher Smith, Elder. Although they ultimately rejected it, they encouraged Charlotte to send a longer work for their consideration. That August she sent them her manuscript for her most acclaimed and enduring novel, Jane Eyre. The Professor would not be published until two years after her death in 1855.