History of the Plague in London

Name: History of the Plague in London
Author: Daniel Defoe

The History of the Plague in London, written by Daniel Defoe in 1722, is a seminal work that chronicles the devastating outbreak of the bubonic plague in the city during the mid-17th century. The book provides a detailed account of the disease's spread, its impact on the population, and the various measures taken to contain it. Defoe's work is based on firsthand accounts and extensive research, making it an invaluable resource for understanding the social, economic, and political implications of the plague. The author's vivid descriptions of the disease's symptoms, the panic and hysteria it engendered, and the efforts to contain it are both chilling and thought-provoking. Throughout the book, Defoe highlights the inadequacies of the medical and social systems of the time, which allowed the plague to spread unchecked. He also examines the role of religion, superstition, and fear in shaping people's responses to the crisis. The History of the Plague in London is a powerful reminder of the fragility of human life and the importance of preparedness in the face of disaster. It remains a relevant and thought-provoking work to this day, offering insights into the nature of disease, pandemics, and the resilience of humanity in the face of adversity.

By Daniel Defoe · First published 1722 · Genre: Historical fiction, Epidemiology, Autobiographical novel · 100,668 words

First lines

It was about the beginning of September, 1664, that I, among the rest of my neighbors, heard in ordinary discourse that the plague was returned again in Holland; for it had been very violent there, and particularly at Amsterdam and Rotterdam, in the year 1663, whither, they say, it was brought (some said from Italy, others from the Levant) among some goods which were brought home by their Turkey fleet; others said it was brought from Candia; others, from Cyprus. It mattered not from whence it came; but all agreed it was come into Holland again.

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History of the Plague in London is listed on Textopian as a historical account by Daniel Defoe, dated 1722 CE.

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Work type: Historical account
Author: Daniel Defoe
Date: 1722 CE
Language: English
Genres: Historical fiction, Epidemiology, Autobiographical novel
Length: 100,668 words
Structure: 1 section, 949 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Genres

Historical fiction — Despite the title, the book tells the story of the Great Plague of London from a semi-fictional perspective. The author wasn't born until after the plague had passed but based his account on comprehensive research and first-hand testimonies, often blending fact and fiction indistinguishably.
Epidemiology — The book provides detailed narrative and documentation on the devastation caused by the bubonic plague in London during the 17th Century, so it can be classified as epidemiology non-fiction.
Autobiographical novel — The book is written in the first-person perspective of 'H.F.', a middle-aged man who decided to stay in London throughout the plague, despite his ability to leave. This perspective gives the novel a personal touch, somewhat similar to an autobiographical novel.