What does altered mean in Beckett grading? This question is often posed by collectors and enthusiasts of James Joyce’s seminal work, Ulysses. Beckett grading is a system used to assess the condition and authenticity of Ulysses copies, particularly those printed by the Shakespeare and Company bookstore in Paris. Understanding the concept of “altered” in this context is crucial for anyone seeking to authenticate and value a first edition of this literary masterpiece. In this article, we will delve into the significance of altered Beckett grading and its impact on the Ulysses collecting community.
Altered Beckett grading refers to the changes made to the original Beckett grading system by the renowned bibliographer and Joyce scholar, James R. Beckett. The Beckett system was originally developed to evaluate the condition and authenticity of Ulysses copies, with grades ranging from A to G, with A being the highest and G being the lowest. However, as time passed and new insights emerged, Beckett himself recognized the need to refine the grading criteria to better reflect the condition of Ulysses copies.
The primary purpose of the altered Beckett grading system is to address the issue of condition variations among Ulysses copies. While the original Beckett system focused on the physical condition of the book, the altered system takes into account both the physical and textual aspects of the copy. This means that alterations to the text, such as changes in the pagination or the inclusion of additional illustrations, are now considered when determining the grade of a Ulysses copy.
One of the most significant changes introduced by the altered Beckett grading system is the introduction of the “B” grade. This grade is reserved for copies that have been altered in some way, such as the addition of a dedication page or the removal of a bookplate. While such alterations may detract from the book’s condition, they do not necessarily diminish its value to a collector. In fact, some alterations can add significant value to a Ulysses copy, especially if they are related to the author or the literary history of the book.
Another aspect of altered Beckett grading is the consideration of the binding. First edition Ulysses copies come in various bindings, such as the original blue cloth, the later green cloth, and the paper wrappers. The altered Beckett grading system takes into account the condition of the binding and its impact on the overall condition of the book. For example, a copy with a well-preserved binding may be graded higher than one with a damaged or worn binding, even if the text has been altered.
The altered Beckett grading system has had a significant impact on the Ulysses collecting community. By providing a more comprehensive evaluation of Ulysses copies, the system has helped collectors and dealers make more informed decisions when purchasing or selling these valuable books. Moreover, the system has encouraged a greater appreciation for the literary and historical significance of Ulysses, as collectors now take into account the book’s textual and physical history when assessing its value.
In conclusion, what does altered mean in Beckett grading? It refers to the refined grading criteria introduced by James R. Beckett to better assess the condition and authenticity of Ulysses copies. The altered Beckett grading system has become an essential tool for collectors and dealers, helping them to understand the value and significance of Ulysses copies in the context of their textual and physical history. By recognizing the importance of alterations and bindings, the system has fostered a deeper appreciation for this literary masterpiece and its place in the world of literature.
