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One of the earliest appearances...
Ben Franklin's historic/collectible essay: "The morals of Chess"...
One of the earliest appearances...
Ben Franklin's historic/collectible essay: "The morals of Chess"...
Item # 716072 THE GENTLEMAN'S MAGAZINE, London, July, 1787
* Benjamin Franklin - Morals of Chess
* re. U.S. Constitution - George Washington
The most notable content is the historic/collectible essay: "The Morals Of Chess, By Dr. Franklin of Philadelphia", which takes nearly two pages. The article begins: "The game of chess is not merely an idle amusement; several very valuable qualities of the mind, useful in the course of human life are to be acquired & strengthened by it..." with much, much more. An interesting & uncommon item by Ben Franklin - and only the 3rd known printing (the 2nd in the United Kingdom by one month) of this famous essay.
Relating to this is an article on the game of chess & how it is strategically played, which takes close to a full page.
Another article is headed: "Dr. Hershel's Recent Discovery of Volcanoes in the Moon". Near the back is "American News" which includes mention of Governor Bowdoin issuing a Proclamation for apprehending those involved in the Shays' Rebellion, with Ben Franklin approving of the proclamation.
Also reported is an almost laughable comment on the efforts of the Constitutional Convention: "This country is at present on the verge of being thrown into popular ferment; delegates are sent from every state to Philadelphia to form a convention for the purpose of revising, altering, or perhaps totally annihilating the different constitutions of the country. This will, no doubt, produce a scene of confusion & anarchy. Dr. Franklin and General Washington are members of this convention."
Included are both full page plates called for.
Complete in 96 pages, full title/contents page with an engraving of St. John's Gate, 5 1/4 by 8 1/4 inches, in overall very nice condition.
AI notes: In The Morals of Chess, Benjamin Franklin presents the game as more than mere amusement, arguing that it cultivates mental habits essential to a virtuous and successful life. He identifies key moral qualities developed through chess—foresight, or the ability to anticipate consequences; circumspection, the awareness of the broader situation; caution, the discipline to avoid impulsive decisions; and perseverance, the resilience to remain hopeful and strategic even when circumstances appear unfavorable. Franklin extends these virtues beyond the game board, emphasizing that chess teaches fair play, patience, and civility—qualities that are just as valuable in personal conduct and social interactions. He urges players to observe good etiquette, avoid deception, respect their opponents, and show humility in both victory and defeat. By aligning the discipline of chess with the principles of morality and courtesy, Franklin makes a compelling case that the game serves as a training ground for thoughtful, honorable living.
A very nice magazine with a wide range of varied content. This was the first periodical to use the word "magazine" in its title, having begun in 1731 and lasting until 1907.
Category: The 1600's and 1700's
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$275.00
