A. Lloyd Moote

Anyone who studies, or has an interest in, either history especially as regards to plagues, will find this book a valuable addition to their library. Drawing mainly on primary sources and contemporary accounts, the Mootes's paint a picture of London as a very different place than the modern view allows. Contrary to the popular image of a plague-ridden London descending into chaos, with the social fabric crumpling and people starving to death in their homes, we are presented with a London bravely dealing with the tragedy they faced.

Plague-ridden London may have been, but commerce, order and compassion were not absent. While it is true that many of those who could afford to do so fled, many more remained. The poor were not abandoned to fend for themselves. Rather, they had doctor's and apothecaries to treat them (though far too few) free of charge. Nurses and watchmen were paid for by the parish, as were food and coal to sustain them. The King may have taken his court and fled, but the Mayor and Alderman remained. Law and order was maintained and, somehow, goods still made their way into the city. For those with the know-how, there was still money to be made.

The Great Plague was interesting, informative and easy to read. It has a strong reliance on primary sources, and includes statistical charts and excerpts from contemporary ledgers, allowing the reader to analyse the data for themselves rather than relying solely on the authors' statements. This is a book I am considering acquiring for my permanent collection.… (mere)