Description
A first edition, first printing of The Bell by Iris Murdoch, published by Chatto and Windus, London in 1958. A near fine copy signed by the author in blue ink to the title page, pushing to the spine tips and corners, toning and spotting to the text block, with a Book Society ‘Ex Libris’ bookplate to the front free end paper signed by a previous owner. In a near fine unclipped wrapper with chipping to the spine tips and knuckles of front and rear flap folds, toning to the spine and strips of toning to the exposed flap edges. Including The Book Society order form dated 3 November 1958 and flyer for the novels advanced dispatch overseas.
The Bell by Iris Murdoch is a philosophical novel set near an Anglican lay community beside a convent. It centres on Dora Greenfield, trapped in a difficult marriage, and Michael Meade, the community’s leader grappling with suppressed desires. The arrival of a legendary bell from the abbey becomes a symbol of truth, revelation and human frailty. Murdoch weaves themes of love, faith, sexuality and morality, exploring the complexities of freedom and the struggle for authentic living.
