Tryon (Thomas)

A Treatise of Dreams & Visions, wherein the Causes, Natures and Uses of Nocturnal Representations and Communications both of Good and Evil Angels, as also departed Souls to Mankinde, including an appendix on ‘the Cause of Madness…’, version with last line of title reading ‘By Philotheos Physiologus’, errata slip mounted on U6 recto, 2 final advertisement leaves, lacking 7 leaves (Q2-8), light browning, some water staining to first couple of quires, occasional spotting, dust soiling, a few scribbles and ownership notes, contemporary calf, rather worn, spine and extremities scuffed, joints cracking, [ESTC R221812; Wing T3197A], n.p., n.d., [1689]

*** A rare work on dreams and visions, as well as the communication with the spirits, also comprising an explanation on a typology of psychosis. Thomas Tryon (1634-1703) was a sugar merchant, who founded a mystical movement known as 'Tryonism', promoting pacifism and vegetarianism. He visited America and his works were widely read in the Colonies. Benjamin Franklin was influenced by his writings to the point of becoming temporarily a Tryonist or vegetarian.