44 pages • 1 hour read
The Diary of Samuel Pepys
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Book Brief
The Diary of Samuel Pepys
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1660576
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
England • 17th century
1660
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Diary of Samuel Pepys is a vivid firsthand account of 17th-century upper-class life in Restoration England, documenting Pepys's daily activities and his career advancements, most notably during significant events such as the coronation of King Charles II, the Great Plague, and the Great Fire of London. Pepys's detailed entries provide insights into his professional successes, personal struggles, and societal observations. The book includes descriptions of physical and emotional abuse and extramarital affairs.
Informative
Nostalgic
Contemplative
Humorous
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
3,196 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Diary of Samuel Pepys by Samuel Pepys is highly praised for its vivid, detailed account of 17th-century English life, offering readers unparalleled historical insight. Its candid, personal entries reveal much about Pepys himself, though some may find the daily minutiae tedious. Overall, it's a compelling primary source for history enthusiasts.
Who Should Read The Diary of Samuel Pepys?
A reader who would enjoy The Diary of Samuel Pepys is likely fascinated by 17th-century English history and enjoys first-person narratives. Comparable to readers of The Journals of John Evelyn or The Life of Samuel Johnson by James Boswell, they appreciate detailed accounts of daily life, politics, and personal reflections from historical figures.
3,196 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Admiral Edward Montagu
Admiral Edward Montagu
Pepys’s cousin and patron, who provided crucial support in his early career and is frequently mentioned as a significant figure in the Diary.
Elizabeth de St. Michel
Elizabeth de St. Michel
Pepys’s wife, the daughter of a French Huguenot refugee, whose life with Pepys is extensively chronicled in the Diary.
Will Hewer
Will Hewer
Pepys’s longtime servant, who plays a significant role in his life and is mentioned frequently in the Diary.
576
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
England • 17th century
1660
Adult
18+ years
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