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Great Britain -- History -- Stuarts, 1603-1714 Books
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John Evelyn
The Diary of John Evelyn (Volume 1 of 2)
"The Diary of John Evelyn (Volume 1 of 2)" by John Evelyn is a diary first published in 1818. This chronicle spans from 1640 to 1706, documenting the life of a Royalist gentleman and virtuoso through decades of English history. Beginning when Evelyn was a student at the Middle Temple, the entries blend contemporary observations with later reflections compiled from notes. His travels, encounters, and experiences offer a window into seventeenth-century life, creating a work that would later inspire attention to Samuel Pepys's more famous diary.
John Evelyn
The Diary of John Evelyn (Volume 2 of 2)
"The Diary of John Evelyn (Volume 2 of 2)" by John Evelyn is a diary first published in 1818. This work chronicles the life of a seventeenth-century Royalist gentleman and scholar from 1640 to 1706. Unlike a strict daily record, Evelyn compiled many entries from notes with the benefit of hindsight, documenting his travels, observations of buildings and art, and experiences across decades of English history. His diary predated and helped inspire the later publication of Samuel Pepys's more famous diary.
Leopold von Ranke
A history of England principally in the seventeenth century, Volume 2 (of 6)
"A History of England principally in the Seventeenth Century, Volume 2" by Leopold von Ranke is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume delves into the intricate political and military events surrounding England during the tumultuous seventeenth century, focusing particularly on the period under King Charles I. The narrative explores significant themes, such as the relationship between England, France, and Spain, and the influential conflicts within Scotland and the broader context of the Thirty Years’ War in Europe. The opening of the book sets the stage for a detailed examination of Charles I’s reign, emphasizing the complexities of his diplomatic relations, especially in light of his attempts to negotiate peace with formidable foes like Spain and France. Ranke introduces the reader to the political landscape, highlighting key figures such as the Duke of Buckingham, whose actions and untimely death significantly impacted England's foreign policy. This opening portion also foreshadows the mounting friction between the monarchy and Parliament, hinting at the civil unrest and conflicts that will arise as a result of Charles I's endeavors to strengthen and assert his authority without parliamentary consent.
Unknown
Characters from the Histories & Memoirs of the Seventeenth Century
"Characters from the Histories & Memoirs of the Seventeenth Century" by David Nichol Smith is a historical collection written in the early 20th century. The work presents short character studies of notable figures from the 17th century, detailing their personal qualities and historical significance as observed by their contemporaries. This compilation includes perspectives on rulers, politicians, poets, and other influential individuals of the time, shedding light on the narratives that shaped English history during this tumultuous period. The opening of the text establishes the context for the character studies, reflecting on the development of literary portraiture in the 17th century as a means to enhance historical writing. Smith emphasizes that the art of character writing emerged as a response to England's deficiency in historical narratives, gathering a variety of observations from key historical figures like John Milton, Clarendon, and Ben Jonson. The introduction discusses the evolution of character studies, their function in depicting personal traits, and the significant shift in historical recording practices from chronicles to more nuanced representations of human experiences and qualities, setting the stage for the subsequent detailed character sketches.
Leopold von Ranke
A history of England principally in the seventeenth century, Volume 1 (of 6)
"A History of England Principally in the Seventeenth Century, Volume 1" by Leopold von Ranke is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The work aims to narrate England's history, particularly focusing on the pivotal events and transformations during the seventeenth century that were influential both domestically and in broader European contexts. At the start of this volume, the author presents a preface discussing the challenges of writing a comprehensive history of a foreign nation, emphasizing the need for accuracy, thorough research, and engaging narratives. Ranke outlines his intention to cover key historical periods, particularly the significant religious and political conflicts of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. He reflects on England's unique position during these centuries as it balanced the retention of medieval institutions while navigating the religious transformations of the time. The opening serves to set the stage for a detailed exploration of England's historical evolution, the influence of pivotal characters, and the complex interplay of politics and religion.
William Bray
Extracts from the Diary of William Bray
"Extracts from the Diary of William Bray" by William Bray is a historical account crafted during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This collection provides an intriguing glimpse into the daily life and social engagements of a notable figure in English history, covering a significant period from 1756 to 1800, with additional notes until 1832. The diary is a personal reflection blending both mundane activities and noteworthy events, serving as a commentary on the social life of its time. The diary entries capture Bray's interactions with a vibrant circle of friends, his participation in social gatherings, and his professional undertakings as an attorney and clerk. Bray’s account provides insight into leisure activities such as card games and visits to the theater, alongside reflections on notable events in society. He divulges personal milestones, including his marriage and experiences as a father, interspersed with observations on the political climate and local affairs. The work is a valuable resource for understanding the social fabric of England during this era, revealing the interplay between personal life and professional duty within the backdrop of provincial society.
Henry Craik
Life of Edward Earl of Clarendon — Volume 02
"Life of Edward Earl of Clarendon — Volume 02" by Sir Henry Craik is a historical account likely written during the late 19th century. This volume presents an in-depth narrative of significant political upheaval in England during the period of the Restoration following the English Civil War, focusing on the experiences and perspectives of Edward Hyde, the Earl of Clarendon, as he navigates the complexities of royal politics and his relationship with key figures of the era, including King Charles II and General Monk. The opening of the volume sets the stage for the tumultuous political landscape after the death of Oliver Cromwell, highlighting Edward Hyde's challenges in maintaining royalist interests amidst a fractured political environment filled with intrigue and animosity. Hyde is depicted as a central figure, striving to restore Charles II to the throne while contending with the competing factions among both royalists and republicans. The narrative delves into the various allegiances, betrayals, and the overarching sense of uncertainty as Hyde engages in diplomatic maneuvering, aiming to consolidate royal power against the backdrop of shifting allegiances and unstable governance.
Mowbray Morris
Montrose
"Montrose" by Mowbray Morris is a historical account written during the late 19th century. The book focuses on the life of James Graham, the fifth Earl and first Marquis of Montrose, a significant figure in Scottish history known for his role during the tumultuous period of the English Civil War. The opening chapters explore Montrose's ancestry, early life, and the political landscape of Scotland, setting the stage for his eventual rise in leadership and conflict. The beginning of "Montrose" delves into James Graham’s familial background, highlighting the illustrious lineage of the Grahams and their tumultuous history, interwoven with key events in Scottish history. It outlines Montrose's formative years, including his upbringing, education, and early marriage, reflecting on the influences that shaped him. The narrative establishes the historical context of his life, emphasizing the political tensions of the time, especially the struggles between the Crown and the Covenanters, leading to Montrose's pivotal decisions in the national conflicts that ensued.
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