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Wit and Mirth: or Pills to Purge Melancholy, Vol. 5 of 6   By: (1653-1723)

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Wit and Mirth: or Pills to Purge Melancholy is a delightful collection of songs, stories, and poems compiled by Thomas D'Urfey. As the fifth volume of a six-part series, this book continues the tradition of providing light-hearted entertainment that brings much-needed mirth and enjoyment to its readers.

D'Urfey masterfully curates a varied selection of witty and humorous pieces that span a broad range of themes and styles. From comical songs and bawdy jokes to sentimental poems and lively tales, he ensures there is something to appeal to every reader's taste. The book opens a window into the colorful and vibrant world of 17th-century England, making it an engaging and enlightening read.

One of the highlights of Wit and Mirth is undoubtedly the collection of songs. D'Urfey's talent shines through in his ability to craft lyrics that captivate the imagination and evoke a range of emotions. The songs embody the spirit of the era, with their lively and catchy melodies that transport readers to a time when music was an integral part of social gatherings and festivities.

Another strength of this collection lies in the diverse array of stories and poems. D'Urfey seamlessly transitions between genres, presenting tales of romance, satire, adventure, and more. Whether it's a comical story that elicits hearty laughter or a touching poem that tugs at the heartstrings, each piece contributes to the overall tapestry of entertainment.

Moreover, Wit and Mirth offers valuable insights into the social fabric of the time. Through the stories and songs, readers gain a glimpse into the daily lives, customs, and concerns of the people of the period. D'Urfey's deep understanding of human nature is evident as he weaves together relatable characters and scenarios that highlight the timeless aspects of human experience.

Although Wit and Mirth: or Pills to Purge Melancholy may not be a book for everyone, those with an appreciation for humor, music, and the colorful tapestry of human existence in bygone eras will find much to enjoy. D'Urfey's compilation skillfully captures the essence of wit and mirth, providing a delightful escape from the sometimes harsh realities of life. This volume, like its predecessors, is a treasure trove of entertainment, guaranteed to bring a smile to the reader's face.

First Page:

[Transcriber's Note: This e book is volume 5 of Thomas D'Urfey's Wit and Mirth: Or Pills to Purge Melancholy , published in six volumes in 1719 20 by J. Tonson, London. It was prepared from a 1959 facsimile reprint by Folklore Library Publishers, Inc., New York, of an 1876 reprint (publisher unidentified).

The 1719 20 edition was published in two issues. The first issue was published under the title Songs Compleat, Pleasant and Divertive ; the second, under the Wit and Mirth title. The 1876 reprint apparently used a combination of the two issues, and volume 5 bears the Songs Compleat title. Moreover, the 1876 reprint was not an exact facsimile of the 1719 20 edition, as the typography and music notation were modernized. For more information on the various editions, see Cyrus L. Day, "Pills to Purge Melancholy," The Review of English Studies , Vol. 8, No. 30 (Apr. 1932), pp. 177 184, available at http://www.jstor.org/stable/508831 (login required).

Archaic and inconsistent spellings and hyphenation have been preserved as they appear in the original, except that "VV" is rendered as "W." The original order of titles in the Alphabetical Table has also been preserved. Obvious printer errors have been corrected.

Some words are rendered in the original in blackletter font. They are rendered here in uppercase letters... Continue reading book >>




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