A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy by Laurence Sterne was published in 1768, just weeks before the writer's death. Sterne, born in 1713, was an English clergyman and novelist, best known for his experimental, humorous, and digressional novel The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman (1759–1767). His work combined subtle analyses of emotion with ironic detachment, and A Sentimental Journey became one of the most important works of sentimental literature of the 18th century.
The book tells the story of Yorick's journey, a character based on Sterne himself, through France and Italy. Unlike typical eighteenth-century travel accounts, which focused on the description of monuments and landscapes, Sterne emphasized emotions and interpersonal relationships. Yorick experiences numerous, often humorous, but also moving episodes, focusing on his own feelings and interactions with the people he meets.
The first edition of the book, published by the London publishers T. Becket and P. A. De Hondt, was enthusiastically received by readers. Although some critics considered its style too free and digressive, A Sentimental Journey quickly gained popularity, contributing to the development of sentimentalism in literature. Unfortunately, the work remained unfinished - Sterne died before he could write the part about Italy.
Despite its incompleteness, the book had a profound influence on later literature, inspiring both English and European writers, including Xavier de Maistre and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. With its unique combination of irony, introspection, and sensitivity, A Sentimental Journey remains one of the most important literary achievements of the 18th century.
About the edition
The book is bound in a handcrafted half-leather binding with slipcase, with stained block edges. The text is set in the classic Monotype Bell font and printed on Century Laid cotton filigree paper.
Ordered copies will be shipped within 14 days of placing the order.
