# How does The Diary develop the theme of Social Ambition and Class?

> The Diary by Samuel Pepys

## Answer

The Diary by Samuel Pepys develops Social Ambition and Class across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.

Pepys is acutely aware of social standing, striving to improve his own through patronage, fine clothes, and home improvements, while observing and judging the behavior of nobles, merchants, and servants.

Pepys's rise from a tailor's son to a high-ranking official; his pride in his family lineage and his patronage by Lord Sandwich.

Pepys's pride in being addressed as 'Esq.' and his careful navigation of social hierarchies among officers and nobles.

Pepys wears his first silk suit, worries about the cost of his patent, and is anxious about his social standing and future prospects.

## Evidence

- [particulars-of-the-life-of-samuel-pepys](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_diary_se/chapters/particulars-of-the-life-of-samuel-pepys.md): Pepys's rise from a tailor's son to a high-ranking official; his pride in his family lineage and his patronage by Lord Sandwich.
- [march-1659-60](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_diary_se/chapters/march-1659-60.md): Pepys's pride in being addressed as 'Esq.' and his careful navigation of social hierarchies among officers and nobles.
- [july-1660](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_diary_se/chapters/july-1660.md): Pepys wears his first silk suit, worries about the cost of his patent, and is anxious about his social standing and future prospects.
- [september-1660](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_diary_se/chapters/september-1660.md): Pepys navigates social circles, dines with influential figures, and manages his finances to improve his standing, reflecting his upward mobility.
- [january-1660-61](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_diary_se/chapters/january-1660-61.md): Pepys notes his rising status, dining with nobility, and his satisfaction at being in places where he once petitioned as a scholar.
- [february-1660-61](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_diary_se/chapters/february-1660-61.md): Pepys begins wearing a coat and sword as a gentleman, chooses Valentines, and hosts dinners, reflecting his social climbing.
- [march-1660-61](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_diary_se/chapters/march-1660-61.md): Pepys is increasingly thoughtful about getting money; he borrows £1,000 for Lord Sandwich and secures his own bond.
- [june-1661](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_diary_se/chapters/june-1661.md): Pepys seeks a place in the Wardrobe for his father, dines with nobility, and enjoys the respect shown by Lord Sandwich's farewell salute.

## Links

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