The Diary of Samuel Pepys

The Diary of Samuel Pepys is a fascinating firsthand account of life in 17th-century England written by Samuel Pepys a civil servant member of Parliament and noted diarist. Pepys began writing his diary on January 1 1660 at the age of 26 and continued it for nearly a decade. The diary provides a detailed and intimate portrait of Pepys life and times including his work as a naval administrator his political and social activities and his personal relationships. Pepys was an astute observer of the world around him and his diary offers a wealth of information on the events and personalities of his era. He witnessed such historical events as the Great Plague of London in 1665 and the Great Fire of London in 1666 and his descriptions of these events are vivid and detailed. Pepys was also an avid social climber and his diary is filled with accounts of his attempts to advance his career and increase his social standing. He was a passionate music lover and his diary includes numerous accounts of his attendance at concerts and operas. Throughout the diary Pepys personality shines through as he is alternately charming vain witty and at times morally questionable. The diary is a testament to the complexity of human nature and the richness of human experience.