The Popol Vuh

The Popol Vuh, or "Book of the Mat," is the sacred narrative of the K’iche’ people. It is a foundational work of Mesoamerican literature, detailing the creation of the world, the adventures of the Hero Twins, and the history of the K’iche’ dynasties.

The Mythic and Heroic Sagas of

the K’iche’s of Central America

The K’iche’ (traditionally spelled "Kichés" in older English scholarship) are a Maya people who live in the western highlands of modern-day Guatemala.

Lewis Spence (1874–1955) was a prominent Scottish folklorist and researcher known for bringing the mythologies of the Americas to a wider British audience in the early 20th century.

SELECT

ESSAYS

ON

COMMERCE,

AGRICULTURE,

MINES,

FISHERIES,

And other USEFUL SUBJECTS.

This collection represents the "Enlightenment" era’s obsession with "useful knowledge"—the idea that scientific observation and economic theory could improve the state and the lives of its citizens.

SECOND EDITION.

The profit of the earth is for all: the king himself?
is served by the field. Ecclesiastes 5:9.?
original: "Eccles. v. 9." This biblical passage was frequently cited in the 18th century to argue that agriculture and the "fruits of the earth" are the true foundation of a nation's wealth, surpassing even the status of royalty.

1764

original Roman numerals: "M. DCC. LXIV."

John Nourse (1705–1780) was a prominent London bookseller who specialized in scientific and mathematical texts. His title "Bookseller in Ordinary" indicates he was an officially appointed supplier to King George III.

The Strand was the center of the London publishing trade in the 18th century. Paul Vaillant was another well-known bookseller of the era, often collaborating with Nourse on significant academic publications.