The Diary · Question
How does The Diary develop the theme of Marriage, Gender, and Sexuality?
Answer
The Diary by Samuel Pepys develops Marriage, Gender, and Sexuality across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The diary explores Pepys' marriage to Elizabeth, his frequent infidelities with servants and actresses, and the double standards of gender, alongside gossip about royal and noble sexual scandals.
The falling out between Lord and Lady Castlemaine over the christening of their child, and her removal of household goods.
Domestic tensions with Elizabeth over the boy and Ashwell; Pepys's jealousy of Pembleton.
Observations of the Queen, Lady Castlemaine, and Mrs. Stewart at court, including the King's coldness toward Castlemaine and Pepys's own fantasies.
Evidence in the book
- July 1662
The falling out between Lord and Lady Castlemaine over the christening of their child, and her removal of household goods.
- June 1663
Domestic tensions with Elizabeth over the boy and Ashwell; Pepys's jealousy of Pembleton.
- July 1663
Observations of the Queen, Lady Castlemaine, and Mrs. Stewart at court, including the King's coldness toward Castlemaine and Pepys's own fantasies.
- August 1663
Pepys's jealousy over his wife's dancing master Pembleton and domestic conflicts with Elizabeth over Ashwell.
- September 1663
Pepys struggles with guilt over his attempted infidelity with Mrs. Lane and reflects on his wife's hard work.
- November 1663
Pepys and Elizabeth have a heated quarrel over a servant's lie, but reconcile before bed.
- March 1663–64
Pepys's conflict with Elizabeth over the laced gown and the dog-breeding incident reveal domestic tensions and gendered expectations.
- June 1664
Pepys and Elizabeth argue about her going out; she cries and later seeks reconciliation.
