The 10 Best Documentaries About Samuel Pepys

Jan 10, 2024 | Best Of, History

Samuel Pepys is a name that may not be familiar to many, but this 17th century Englishman left behind a treasure trove of information about his life and the events of his time. He was a naval administrator, Member of Parliament, and most importantly, a prolific diarist. Over the years, Pepys’ diary has been adapted into various forms, including plays, films, television shows, and books. However, there are also some incredible documentaries that offer a unique and informative perspective on his life. Here are the 10 best documentaries about Samuel Pepys that you should watch.

1. Samuel Pepys – A Remarkable Life

Samuel Pepys, one of the most influential figures in British history, is often described as a man who lived and breathed adventure. Born on February 23rd, 1633 in London, England, he went on to become a renowned naval administrator, Member of Parliament and a celebrated diarist. Pepys’ life was nothing short of remarkable, filled with ups and downs, triumphs and tragedies.

 

2. The History of Samuel Pepys in a Nutshell

Samuel Pepys was a man of many talents – an administrator, Member of Parliament, naval officer and best known as a diarist. Born in London in 1633, he lived through the tumultuous times of the English Civil War and the Great Plague of London. His diary provides a unique insight into life in 17th century England, and has become an important historical document. In this article, we will explore the best documentaries about Samuel Pepys that offer a glimpse into his life and times.

 

3.The Great Fire of London, 1666: The Diary of Samuel Pepys

during tumultuous times in England. One of the most significant events he witnessed and recorded was the Great Fire of London in 1666. Pepys’ diary entries provide a rare and valuable insight into the chaos, destruction, and resilience that characterized this infamous fire. His detailed accounts captivate readers with his vivid descriptions of the flames engulfing London’s streets, the desperate attempts to save buildings and lives, and the aftermath of the devastating disaster. But Pepys’ diary is much more than just a historical record of the Great Fire.

 

4. The London Storyteller reads Samuel Pepys Diary May 15th to May 29th 1665

Samuel Pepys, the famous 17th-century English diarist, has captured our imagination with his detailed and intimate writings. His diary, covering the years 1660-1669, gives us a glimpse into everyday life in Restoration London. The Best Documentaries about Samuel Pepys take us on a journey through the streets and alleys of London, following in his footsteps as he witnesses some of the most significant events in English history. One such documentary, “The London Storyteller Reads Samuel Pepys Diary,” focuses on two weeks of Pepys’ diary, from May 15th to May 29th, 1665.

 

5. The Diary of Samuel Pepys

Samuel Pepys, a 17th century Englishman, is mostly known for his famous diary that provides an intimate and detailed account of the Restoration era. However, his life was full of adventures, controversies and achievements that surpass the boundaries of what we know from his writings. Born in London in 1633, Pepys grew up in a time of great turmoil and change in England. He experienced the Great Plague of London, the Second Anglo-Dutch War and the Great Fire of London – all events that he wrote about extensively in his diary.

 

6. A Very Progressive Diarist – Samuel Pepys

Samuel Pepys was a man ahead of his time. Born in 1633, he lived through the tumultuous years of the English Civil War and witnessed the restoration of the monarchy under Charles II. But despite living in an era marked by political upheaval and social change, Pepys remained focused on documenting his day-to-day life with a level of detail that would make most modern bloggers envious. Pepys’ diary, written in a shorthand code that he created himself, provides an intimate glimpse into the life of a 17th century Englishman.

 

7. Samuel Pepys the Guitarist – Professor Christopher Page FBA

Samuel Pepys is best known for his detailed diary, which gives a unique insight into life in 17th century London. However, he was also an accomplished musician and guitarist. In this documentary, Professor Christopher Page FBA delves into the musical world of Samuel Pepys. Professor Page begins by discussing the importance of music during Pepys’ time. Music was a central part of daily life and played an important role in socializing and entertainment. Pepys himself was a skilled guitarist, often playing for friends and family at home.

 

8. BBC Watch Magic Grandad – Samuel Pepys – Great Fire of London

Samuel Pepys is a name that has gone down in history as one of the most famous diarists of all time. His detailed accounts of life in 17th century London have provided us with invaluable insight into the social, political and cultural landscape of the era. But what do we really know about this enigmatic figure? How did he come to write such a remarkable diary? And what events shaped his life and the world around him? In this BBC documentary, we follow the adventure of Magic Grandad as he takes us back in time to learn more about Samuel Pepys.

 

9. Diary of a Sadman – Samuel Pepys

Samuel Pepys, a name that is not unknown to history buffs and literature enthusiasts. His diary, written in the 17th century has been a source of fascination for many generations. But what makes his words so captivating even after centuries have passed? Pepys’s diary gives us a glimpse into his life and the events that shaped it. His words paint a vivid picture of the London in the 1600s – from the Great Plague to the Great Fire, Pepys was there to witness and document it all. But beyond just being a historical record, his diary also showcases his personal struggles and emotions.

 

10. 1666: The Great Fire of London (British Documentary)

In 1666, a catastrophic fire ravaged the city of London, burning down thousands of homes and businesses. The Great Fire of London was one of the most devastating events in British history, forever changing the landscape of the city and its people. The blaze began in a bakery on Pudding Lane and quickly spread throughout the narrow streets lined with wooden buildings.

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David B