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Old Saint Paul's A Tale of the Plague and the Fire   By: (1805-1882)

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Old Saint Paul's: A Tale of the Plague and the Fire by William Harrison Ainsworth offers readers a chilling journey through 17th century London, exploring the devastating events of the Great Plague and the subsequent Great Fire. Ainsworth skillfully weaves together historical events and fictional storytelling, creating a captivating narrative that both educates and entertains.

Set against the backdrop of one of London's most iconic landmarks, the majestic Old Saint Paul's Cathedral, this novel immerses readers in a richly detailed world filled with vivid descriptions of the bustling city. Ainsworth effortlessly transports us back in time, painting a picture of a city teeming with life, and later, one engulfed in chaos and despair.

While the historical events provide the backbone of the story, the true strength of this novel lies in its diverse cast of characters. Ainsworth masterfully constructs a range of personalities, each with their own unique struggles and motivations. From the determined and resourceful hero, Leonard, to the cunning and mysterious villain, Warner, the characters come alive on the pages and leave a lasting impression.

One of the aspects that sets this novel apart is Ainsworth's meticulous attention to detail. His research is evident as he brings to life the sights, sounds, and even the smells of 17th century London. The descriptions of the crowded streets, the macabre scenes during the Plague, and the destructive path of the Great Fire are so vivid that readers can almost feel the heat of the flames and the despair of the characters.

Ainsworth also manages to strike a delicate balance between historical accuracy and engaging storytelling. While some events and characters may be purely fictional, they seamlessly blend into the authentic historical backdrop, enhancing the overall narrative rather than detracting from it. The pacing of the story keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eager to uncover the fate of the characters while learning about this crucial period in London's history.

However, it is worth mentioning that at times, the sheer number of characters and their intertwining storylines can be overwhelming, making it challenging to keep track of everyone. Some readers may find themselves craving more depth and development for certain characters, particularly as the story progresses and the plot becomes more intricate.

Overall, Old Saint Paul's: A Tale of the Plague and the Fire is a captivating historical novel that transports readers to a tumultuous time in London's history. Ainsworth's meticulous research, engaging storytelling, and richly-drawn characters make this a compelling read that will appeal to both history enthusiasts and fans of gripping fiction.

First Page:

OLD SAINT PAUL'S

A TALE OF THE PLAGUE AND THE FIRE

BY WILLIAM HARRISON AINSWORTH

The portion of the ensuing Tale relating to the Grocer of Wood street, and his manner of victualling his house, and shutting up himself and his family within it during the worst part of the Plague of 1665, is founded on a narrative, which I have followed pretty closely in most of its details, contained in a very rare little volume, entitled, " Preparations against the Plague, both of Soul and Body ," the authorship of which I have no hesitation in assigning to DEFOE. Indeed, I venture to pronounce it his masterpiece. It is strange that this matchless performance should have hitherto escaped attention, and that it should not have been reprinted with some one of the countless impressions of the " History of the Plague of London ," to which it forms an almost necessary accompaniment. The omission, I trust, will be repaired by Mr. HAZLITT the younger, DEFOE'S last and best editor, in his valuable edition of the works of that great novelist and political writer, now in the course of publication. It may be added, that a case precisely similar to that of the Grocer, and attended with the same happy results, occurred during the Plague of Marseilles, in 1720.

For my acquaintance with this narrative, as well as for the suggestion of its application to the present purpose, I am indebted to my friend, Mr... Continue reading book >>




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