The Diary of Samuel Pepys – Complete 1660 N.S is a captivating firsthand account of life in 17th century England. Written in a diary format, Pepys chronicles significant events such as the Restoration of the English monarchy, the Great Plague of London, and the Great Fire of London. Pepys’ writing style is candid and detailed, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of people during this tumultuous period. His keen observations and witty commentary make this diary a valuable historical and literary resource. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in English history or the development of the modern diary genre. Samuel Pepys, a naval administrator and Member of Parliament, had a keen interest in literature and the arts. His firsthand experiences and connections to notable figures of the time influenced his decision to keep a diary. Pepys’ meticulous record-keeping and sharp wit have made his diary a celebrated historical document. I highly recommend The Diary of Samuel Pepys – Complete 1660 N.S to readers interested in English history, literature, and the development of the diary as a literary form. Pepys’ vivid descriptions and lively anecdotes make this diary a captivating and informative read.
About the author
Samuel Pepys (1633-1703) was a preeminent English naval administrator and Member of Parliament, who is now most renowned for the diary he maintained during a pivotal era in British history. Serving under the aegis of King Charles II, Pepys was intimately involved with the restoration of the monarchy and the subsequent transformation of British naval power. His vocational roles, among others, included Chief Secretary to the Admiralty and President of the Royal Society, showcasing his duality as both a man of science and letters.
The ‘Diary of Samuel Pepys — Complete 1660 N.S’ is considered one of the most important primary sources for the English Restoration period. Written in shorthand, the diary provides an unparalleled view of the daily life and tumultuous events of 17th-century London, including the Great Plague, the Great Fire of London, and the Second Anglo-Dutch War. Pepys’ prose offers remarkable insight not only into the events of the day but also the author’s personal musings and experiences, rendered all the more vivid by his candidness and attention to detail. Spanning a decade, this diary has been central to the study of 17th-century England and remains a valued literary work for both its historical importance and engaging narrative style.