The Zincali: Or An Account of The Gypsies of Spain

THIS IS A SCARCE DATE-STAMPED 1842 DOUBLE-EDITION WITH BOTH BOOKS IN ONE VOLUME, NOW 182 YEARS OLD AND WELL-PRESERVED (PRE CIVIL WAR)
HERE ARE A FEW OF THE SUBJECTS DISCUSSED: FORTUNE TELLERS, OCCULT POWERS, GYPSY CLANS, DIVINATION, REINCARNATION, SORCERERS, TAROT READERS, PALM READERS, THE SOUL, ANCIENT EGYPT, THE GYPSY LANGUAGE, THE EVIL EYE, SUPERSTITIONS, GYPSIES FROM ENGLAND, SPAIN, ROME, THE EVIL EYE, CANNIBALS, GYSPY WOMEN, THE EXECUTIONS, BUDDHISM, SUPERSTITION, AND SO MUCH MORE
PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS NOT THE 1843, 1846, 1888, 1893, 1901, 1902, 1910S, 1920S, OR 193OS REDO IT IS AN ORIGINAL 1842
PRINTED AND BOUND IN NEW YORK BY WILLIAM OSBORN, ORIGINALLY LOCATED AT 88 WILLIAMS STREET, NEW YORK

If you are interested in the Gypsies and their lore, magic, and history, this is the definitive book. It includes the tales and magic of the Gypsies, their language, history, and their uses of occult divination. This is a beautiful book and historically significant for future generations. Although printed nearly a decade before the American Civil War of 1861, this book has been very well-kept. Most of these early 1800 editions have either been read to pieces or have turned to dust; luckily, this one has been loved and cared for. They don't make books like these anymore, and they never will. I would snag this one before it's gone.

"George Henry Borrow was a 19th-century writer who wrote novels and travelogues based on his travels around Europe. Through his travels, Borrow developed a close relationship with the Romani people, which plays a prominent role in his book The Bible in Spain and Lavengro. The Zincali - An Account of the Gypsies of Spain was written over five years ago, and the author traveled around Spain. Borrow says of the Gypsies, "The Gypsies, who are certainly a very mysterious people, le come from some distant land, no mortal knows why, and who made their first appearance in Europe at a dark period when events were not so accurately recorded as at present."

The overall condition of this book is very good despite being printed before Abraham Lincoln became president... It displays some of the typical attributes of an 1840s edition. This includes shelf wear and age to the covers and spine, most notably the head of the spine, although it displays beautifully. The interior pages are naturally age-toned and will contain the occasional age spot or foxing, but truth be told, they are exceptional for this paper era. It is well-bound, complete, and very lovely.

In this work, George Borrow writes about the living and culture of the Romani people, especially in Spain. At the end of the book, a dictionary of the Romani language can be found. Many anecdotes of Borrow's encounter with these people are to be found in this book, which shows that he spoke the Romani fluently and was even considered one of them. In contrast to most modern works about the Romani people, the dark side of the Romani culture is discussed. George Borrow respected them highly and mentioned the long history of their persecution in Europe and elsewhere.

George Borrow, an English author and adventurer, is widely known for his works on Romani (Gypsy) culture and travel literature. In his book An Account of the Gypsies of Spain," Borrow delves into the mysterious and captivating world of the Spanish Gypsies, providing an in-depth exploration of their history, customs, language, and way of life.

Background:
George Borrow was born in 1803 and was keenly interested in languages and cultural exploration from a young age. His wanderlust and fascination with the Romani people led him to travel extensively throughout Europe, particularly Spain. His encounters with the Spanish Gypsies left an indelible mark on his life and inspired him to document their unique traditions.

"An Account of the Gypsies of Spain":
Borrow offers a comprehensive account of his experiences living among the Gypsies of Spain. He vividly describes their camps, nomadic lifestyle, and interactions with the wider Spanish society. Borrow's narrative captures the essence of the Gypsy community, presenting them not as mere wanderers but as a distinct cultural group with their language, customs, and traditions.

Language and Culture:
Borrow's fascination with languages is evident throughout the book. He delves into the Romani language, sharing vocabulary, phrases, and grammatical insights, providing readers with a glimpse into the linguistic richness of the Gypsy culture. He also explores the social structure, laws, and folklore of the Spanish Gypsies, shedding light on their rituals, superstitions, and belief systems.

Romanticizing the Gypsies:
While Borrow's portrayal of the Spanish Gypsies is often sympathetic, it is essential to note that his work reflects the prevailing romanticized and exoticized perceptions of the 19th century. He portrays the Gypsies as mysterious and enigmatic figures, perpetuating stereotypes that were prevalent at the time. Borrow's romanticized lens should be considered within the historical context in which he wrote.

Legacy and Influence:
George Borrow's works on the Romani people have impacted the understanding and appreciation of Gypsy culture. His writings were among the first attempts to dispel stereotypes and shed light on the rich heritage and contributions of the Romani people.