One of the most famous highlights of the diary is Pepys’ first-hand account of the Great London Fire which destroyed much of the city in 1666. Surely, all those women could not be literally referenced with what truly was one of the author’s favorite terms for women. Some might argue that this term is literal and not metaphorical, but if so, then the diarist should at least partially be judged by the company he kept. He refers to his wife’s maid Nell as a “simple slut.” Another women is called not only “an ugly wench” be the “most ill-favoured slut” he ever met in his life. References the exit of a woman with a simile that seems particularly cruel: “and so she is gone like an idle slut.” In reality, “slut” is one of the more common recurring terms which Pepys uses to refer to women. This use of figurative language for the point of comparison is a perfect example of the typical use of metaphorical language in the diary as Pepys has a wicked sense of humor that derives from painting a portrait of those he holds in low esteem through such comparisons. But I put him off like an arse, as he is” Martin, to trouble me again to get him a Lieutenant's place for which he is as fit as a foole can be. Martin for whom he has quite a low opinion and dreads having to meet.

In his entry for October 21, 1664, Pepys engages two similes almost back to back to reference a certain Mr.

Far more important than the piddling events of history is the contribution of Pepys to the legacy of the word itself. Clerke, who in discourse tells me, that Sir Charles Barkeley's greatness is only his being pimp to the King.” Barkeley was not held in particularly high regard by his critics, but exactly what the metaphorical reference to prostitution in the name of the King is exactly supposed to mean has never been made explicitly clear. The first known recorded use of the word “pimp” as a metaphor for scandalous behavior not associated with procuring men off the street to pay for sexual congress with a prostitute occurred in the entry for Decemwhen Pepys writes “ met with Dr. We are thankful for their contributions and encourage you to make your own.

These notes were contributed by members of the GradeSaver community.

The diary of samuel pepys