The Diary · Chapter
Particulars of the Life of Samuel Pepys explained
This chapter provides a biographical overview of Samuel Pepys, detailing his family lineage, early career, and rise to prominence as Clerk of the Acts.
What happens
This chapter provides a biographical overview of Samuel Pepys, detailing his family lineage, early career, and rise to prominence as Clerk of the Acts. It covers his appointment to the Navy Office, his work during the Dutch war and the Plague, his role in the Fire of London, and his subsequent parliamentary inquiry. The chapter also explores his family history, his marriage to Elizabeth, and his patronage by Sir Edward Montagu.
Themes in this chapter
Naval Administration and Corruption
Pepys's appointment as Clerk of the Acts despite lacking naval and accounting knowledge, his hard work to become a model official, and his role in managing naval affairs during the Dutch war and Plague.
Social Ambition and Class
Pepys's rise from a tailor's son to a high-ranking official; his pride in his family lineage and his patronage by Lord Sandwich.
Money, Debt, and Economy
Pepys's salary as Clerk of the Acts (£350 a year plus ancient fee), his additional income as deputy Clerk of the Privy Seal, and his role as treasurer for Tangier.
Characters to notice
- Samuel Pepys
The diarist and subject of the biography; appointed Clerk of the Acts, worked diligently during the Dutch war and Plague, and saved the Navy Office during the Fire of London.
- Elizabeth Pepys
Pepys's wife; mentioned in relation to their wedding date and living at Woolwich during the Plague.
- Edward Montagu, Earl of Sandwich
Pepys's cousin and patron; secured Pepys's appointment as Clerk of the Acts and supported him early in his career.
- Sir William Coventry
Proposed Pepys as Surveyor-General of the Victualling Office; corresponded with Pepys during the Plague.
- Mr. Povy
Thomas Povy, treasurer for Tangier affairs; his incompetence led to Pepys replacing him as treasurer.
- Roger Pepys
Cousin of Samuel Pepys; mentioned in relation to the family's Scottish origins.
Key passages
“more of the Navye’s Transactions than himselfe, and possibly may speak as much to the project if required, or else he is a blockhead, and not fit for that imployment. But why he should not make as able a Commissioner as a Shipp wright let wise men judge.”
A person who knows more about naval matters than Pepys could contribute to the project if needed; otherwise, he is unfit. A wise person would question why a shipwright couldn't be as capable a commissioner.
Reflects the debate over Pepys's qualifications for the Navy Office.
“The sickness in general thickens round us, and particularly upon our neighbourhood. You, sir, took your turn of the sword; I must not, therefore, grudge to take mine of the pestilence.”
The plague is spreading heavily around us, especially in our area. You have faced the dangers of war, so I must accept the danger of the plague.
Pepys's letter to Coventry during the Plague, showing his dedication to duty.