
Step into the bustling world of mid‑17th‑century London through the eyes of a diligent clerk who recorded every detail of his life. In these early entries, Pepys balances the ordinary—late‑night meals, financial dealings, and visits to the theatre—with the extraordinary responsibilities of a senior Admiralty official. His candid observations on everything from a swan‑filled pie to the latest stage productions paint a vivid picture of daily routine, social ambition, and the restless energy of a city on the brink of change.
This unabridged recording preserves the original shorthand manuscript, complemented by scholarly notes that illuminate obscure references and contextual nuances. Listeners will hear the rhythm of Pepys’s own voice as he grapples with modest anxieties, negotiates favors, and reflects on his modest successes. The result is an intimate, day‑by‑day portrait that brings Restoration London to life, offering both historical insight and timeless human moments.
Language
en
Duration
~10 hours (631K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by David Widger
Release date
2004-10-31
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1633–1703
Best known for the diary that captures everyday life in Restoration London, this lively observer recorded everything from the Great Fire to the small dramas of his own household. His pages feel unusually modern: curious, candid, funny, and full of detail.
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