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The Curious World of Samuel Pepys and John Evelyn

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The Curious World of Samuel Pepys and John Evelyn by Margaret Willes explores the fascinating lives and friendship of two iconic diarists from seventeenth-century England, Samuel Pepys and John Evelyn. Through their diaries and extensive correspondence, the book delves into various aspects of their personal experiences and historical events, painting a vivid picture of this intriguing period. The narrative highlights their shared interests and adventures, offering a unique glimpse into their curious world.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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You might enjoy this book if you're fascinated by the rich tapestry of 17th-century England seen through the eyes of two renowned diarists. Their lively accounts reveal personal insights into historical events and everyday life, making it an engaging read for history enthusiasts or fans of vividly detailed memoirs.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

An intimate portrait of two pivotal Restoration figures during one of the most dramatic periods of English history

The Curious World of Samuel Pepys and John Evelyn by Margaret Willes offers the first full portrait of the friendship between two celebrated English diarists, Samuel Pepys and John Evelyn, transforming our understanding of their times. These extraordinary men were not just close friends, but they also epitomised the intellectual spirit of the era.

Pepys, known for his earthy and shrewd nature, contrasted with Evelyn, a genteel aesthete. Despite their differing personalities, both were united by their passion for intellectual pursuits. Their work to alleviate the plight of sailors caught up in the Dutch wars brought them together, sharing an inexhaustible curiosity for life and the exotic.

Willes delves into their mutual interestsβ€”diary-keeping, science, travel, and a love of booksβ€”while also exploring their divergent enthusiasms, such as Pepys' love for theatre and music, and Evelyn's passion for horticulture and garden design.

Through the richly documented lives of these two remarkable men, Willes revisits the history of London and England in an age marked by regicide, revolution, fire, and plague, revealing it as a time of enthralling possibility.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Curious World of Samuel Pepys and John Evelyn by Margaret Willes is celebrated for its engaging exploration of the intertwining lives of these two renowned diarists, set against the backdrop of Restoration England. Reviewers praise the book for its vivid portrayal of Pepys and Evelyn, brought to life with meticulous detail and scholarly insight. The narrative offers a fascinating glimpse into the dynamic world of 17th-century London, filled with significant historical events and societal changes, and is appreciated for its beautiful illustrations and high production quality.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780300238686

Publisher: Yale University Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 28 August 2018

Country: United States

Imprint: Yale University Press

Illustration: 47 color + 18 b-w illus.

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 127.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 431g

Pages: 304

About the Author

Margaret Willes, formerly publisher at the National Trust, is author of several books, including Reading Matters and The Gardens of the British Working Class. She lives in London.

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