The books catalogued in the present volume were collected by the
Shakespearian scholar Edward Capell and formed the principal part of his
library during the years which he spent in the preparation of his
edition of Shakespeare's dramatic works. After the publication of this
his life's work and the completion of his commentary, the appearance of
which however was delayed, Capell parted with his library, the most
valuable portion being presented to Trinity while the remainder was
dispersed. The conclusion of the Seniority relating to the gift is
preserved in the books of the College under the date June 26, 1779. It
runs "Agreed by the Master and Seniors, that the thanks of the Society
be presented to Edward Capel, Esq. for the valuable Collection of the
old Editions of Shakespeare, and of the several manuscripts and printed
books, relating to the same Author. J. Peterborough, M.C." The further
conclusion relating to the keeping of the books will be found quoted in
the entry concerning the MS catalogue (p. 163).
Edward Capell, son of the rector of Stanton in Suffolk, was born on June
11, 1713. He was educated at the grammar school of Bury St Edmunds and
at Catharine Hall, Cambridge. In 1737 he became deputy-inspector of
plays and in 1745 groom of the privy chamber; both appointments being
due to the patronage of the Duke of Grafton. In 1760 he published his
volume of 'Prolusions.' In 1768 appeared his edition of Shakespeare in
ten volumes, dedicated to the grandson of his former patron. The
commentary was not finally published till 1783. In the meanwhile Capell
had died at his chambers in Brick Court in the Temple on February 24,
1781. He also published 'Two Tables elucidating the Sounds of Letters'
in 1749 and 'Reflections on the Originallity of Authours' in 1766.
The system on which the books have been catalogued will I think explain
itself. Each work is entered under the author's name whenever the
ascription can be made with a reasonable degree of certainty, whether or
not the name appears in the work itself. Otherwise books are entered
under their titles, except in the case of those published under
pseudonyms, which are treated as real names. Initials have not been
allowed as headings. In all cases in which any possibility of doubt
exists, cross references will be found in the index. With regard to
information concerning printers, etc. I have only given notes in cases
of particular interest. A list of printers and stationers will be found
at the end. In one detail I have deliberately sacrificed consistency to
expediency. I have, namely, in giving the names of authors of
commendatory verses and the like, followed the original or modernised
spelling as appeared more convenient in each individual case.
Finally it is my pleasant duty to acknowledge the kind and valuable help
I have throughout received from Mr Aldis Wright, at whose original
suggestion the present work was undertaken. I also owe certain
suggestions and corrections to my friend Mr A.W. Pollard of the British
Museum, to whom the proofs were submitted.