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In the space of two years, London endured two catastrophes that changed the city forever. In 1665, the Great Plague swept through the capital, leaving tens of thousands dead and filling the streets with fear as the grim cry of “Bring out your dead!” echoed from house to house. Barely had the city begun to recover when, in September 1666, disaster struck again. A small fire in Pudding Lane grew into an inferno that raged for four days, destroying much of London and leaving its people homeless amid the ruins. In this vivid account, James Leasor brings these dramatic events to life through the words of those who witnessed them. Drawing on the diaries of Samuel Pepys, the writings of Daniel Defoe and many other contemporary sources, he recreates a city gripped by disease, panic, courage and resilience. Rich in human detail and historical insight, The Plague and the Fire is the compelling story of how London survived its darkest days and emerged transformed.
In the space of two years, London endured two catastrophes that changed the city forever. In 1665, the Great Plague swept through the capital, leaving tens of thousands dead and filling the streets with fear as the grim cry of “Bring out your dead!” echoed from house to house. Barely had the city begun to recover when, in September 1666, disaster struck again. A small fire in Pudding Lane grew into an inferno that raged for four days, destroying much of London and leaving its people homeless amid the ruins. In this vivid account, James Leasor brings these dramatic events to life through the words of those who witnessed them. Drawing on the diaries of Samuel Pepys, the writings of Daniel Defoe and many other contemporary sources, he recreates a city gripped by disease, panic, courage and resilience. Rich in human detail and historical insight, The Plague and the Fire is the compelling story of how London survived its darkest days and emerged transformed.