The Diary of Samuel Pepys, Vol 2

The Diary of Samuel Pepys #2

by Samuel Pepys

Pepys's Diary covers the years 1660 to 1669, and is one of the most vivid and minute authorities for the events of the Restoration period, ranging from the manners and scandals of the court to Pepys's own interests and weaknesses. Pepys himself was closely concerned with contemporary events in his employment at the Admiralty, where, although he began in a minor position, he eventually effected drastic and far-reaching reforms. No less a part of the interest of the Diary lies however in the way it allows us to share in Pepys's home and social life, his interests and ambitions, friends and acquaintances.

Volume 2 covers the period from April 1664 to June 1667, thus including Pepys's invaluable eyewitness account of the Great Fire of London.

In his selection of the material the editor has been guided by its human appeal and historic interest, and has preserved intact the drama of Pepys's public and private life. The text of this edition is based on that of the Rev. Mynors Bright, published in 1875-1879 from his own typescript. Lord Braybrooke's notes have been retained with minor corrections whenever they appeared useful, identifying persons, places and obscure words.

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1906

About the author

Samuel Pepys was an English naval administrator and Member of Parliament, who is now most famous for his diary. Although Pepys had no maritime experience, he rose by patronage, hard work and his talent for administration, to be the Chief Secretary to the Admiralty under King James II. His influence and reforms at the Admiralty were important in the early professionalization of the Royal Navy.

The detailed private diary he kept during 1660–1669 was first published in the nineteenth century, and is one of the most important primary sources for the English Restoration period. It provides a combination of personal revelation and eyewitness accounts of great events, such as the Great Plague of London, the Second Dutch War and the Great Fire of London.

His surname is usually pronounced /'pi:ps/ ('peeps').