The Doheny Copy
Very rare first edition. According to most authorities, only 40 copies were printed for the author, which were intended for private distribution to the author's friends. While some bibliographers (e.g. Howes) assert that a total of 100 copies were printed, the BAL cites H.D. Cater, editor of Adams's correspondence (1947), that the original edition comprised only 40 copies. The regular commercial edition did not appear until 1918, after the author's death.
The Education of Henry Adams is celebrated both as a great American autobiography and a compelling reflection on the societal changes of the 19th century. Henry Adams, as a member of the prominent Adams political family, provides an candid and introspective look at his own life while critiquing the adequacy of traditional education against the backdrop of rapid technological and political transformations. The work is particularly noted for its exploration of themes relating to the conflict between old religious values and new scientific beliefs, thus capturing the essence of an evolving American society. The book's literary significance is also grounded in an experimental narrative style, which melds historical analysis with personal existential inquiry, influencing the modernist movement, particularly autobiographical writing.
The Modern Library named The Education of Henry Adams as the best non-fiction book published in English since 1900.