Diary of John Manningham (eBook)

John Manningham, an English lawyer and diarist, was notable for his culturally significant diary penned during the early 17th century—an essential period in English literary history. Though the exact dates of his birth and death are unrecorded, it is widely accepted that Manningham's main contribution to literary heritage comes from his scholarly accounts documented within the 'Diary of John Manningham' (1868). Chronicling the years 1602 to 1603, Manningham's diary insightfully captures the daily life and courtly events of the Elizabethan and early Jacobean periods. His entries are particularly valuable for their references to contemporary figures, notably William Shakespeare, whom Manningham mentions in relation to a performance of 'Twelfth Night.' Through a mixture of gossip, wit, and legal matters, his Diary provides unparalleled windows into the social and cultural milieu of his era. Despite the diary's brevity and its limited focus on a particular social stratum, the vivacity of Manningham's observations renders his work a cherished resource for scholars exploring the texture of early modern England. His literary style, characterized by a detailed and anecdotal approach, continues to enlighten and entertain readers interested in the rich tapestry of England's historic landscape.