The Diary of George Lloyd: Volume 64, Part 1

George Lloyd's diary provides a unique insight into the everyday life of an unremarkable man during two phases of his life, offering valuable information on social and cultural history in early modern England.

Format: Hardback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 22 December 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Here is the rephrased text:

Published here for the first time, the diary of George Lloyd (1642–1718) presents a richly detailed account of the everyday life of an unremarkable man during two phases of his life: his attempt, between 1675 and 1678, to establish himself as a schoolmaster in Colchester; and the twilight of his career as a Customs officer at the Port of London in 1711–12. Virtually unknown to scholarship, Lloyd's diary is not a record of notable events, political upheavals, or religious controversies. Rather, it is a uniquely quotidian text consisting of regular daily entries documenting the activities and experiences of an individual far removed from – and largely unconcerned with – the great events of history. This diary will be an invaluable resource for scholars studying many aspects of early modern English social and cultural history, including sociality, fashion, religious observance, courtship, food and drink, and working life.

George Lloyd's diary, published here for the first time, offers a captivating glimpse into the everyday life of an unremarkable man during two distinct phases of his life. Spanning from 1675 to 1678, his initial endeavor involved his pursuit of a career as a schoolmaster in Colchester. Subsequently, in the twilight of his career, from 1711 to 1712, he served as a Customs officer at the Port of London. What sets Lloyd's diary apart is its remarkable depth and detail, providing a unique perspective on the ordinary experiences of a person situated far from the grand events of history. Rather than a record of notable occurrences, political upheavals, or religious controversies, the diary consists of regular daily entries that meticulously document the activities and experiences of an individual who remained largely unaffected by the great movements of time.

These entries offer a poignant portrayal of Lloyd's daily existence, revealing his interactions with colleagues, students, and the broader community. From his observations of sociality and fashion to his reflections on religious observance and courtship, the diary provides a rich tapestry of early modern English social and cultural history. Scholars will find immense value in exploring the diary's contents, as it sheds light on various aspects of early modern life, including social interactions, material culture, and the broader cultural landscape.

Lloyd's diary stands as a testament to the power of ordinary individuals to document and preserve their experiences, offering a valuable resource for scholars seeking to understand the complexities of early modern English society. Its quotidian nature and lack of preoccupation with grand events make it a unique and invaluable contribution to our understanding of the past.

Weight: 680g
Dimension: 150 x 224 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009323413