Tour through the Eastern Counties of England 1722

Daniel Defoe 지음

문학일독 2025년 02월 25일 출간

작품소개

책소개

Daniel Defoe’s Tour through the Eastern Counties of England, 1722 is a travel account from the early 18th century, written in the form of a series of letters. In this work, Defoe documents his journey from London through Essex, Suffolk, and Norfolk, offering detailed observations on the landscapes, economic changes, and social characteristics of each region.
In the preface, he clarifies that his goal is not merely to write a travelogue but to provide a systematic account based on multiple excursions. As he leaves London, he notes the increasing number of buildings around the city and describes the unique lifestyle of those living in the Essex marshes. He also makes intriguing social observations, such as the notably high rate of remarriage among widowers in Essex, which reflects the marriage customs and societal norms of the time.
Beyond simply recording geographical movements, Defoe discusses economic transformations, trade and industry developments, and the contrasts between urban and rural areas. These elements come together to paint a vivid picture of 18th-century eastern England, making the work not only a travel narrative but also a valuable historical and social record.

목차

INTRODUCTION.
TOUR THROUGH THE EASTERN COUNTIES OF ENGLAND, 1722.
A DIARY: Or, An Account of the Siege and Blockade of Colchester, A.D. 1648.
Norfolk.
APPENDIX.

작가정보

저자(글) Daniel Defoe

Daniel Defoe (1661–1731) was an English writer, journalist, and trader, best known as the author of Robinson Crusoe (1719), one of the earliest English novels. Born into a family of dissenters, he engaged in various business ventures but faced frequent financial troubles. He was also a prolific political pamphleteer, often expressing controversial opinions that led to his imprisonment.
Defoe’s works reflect his keen interest in economics, politics, and human survival, blending fiction with realism. Besides Robinson Crusoe, his other notable works include Moll Flanders (1722) and A Journal of the Plague Year (1722). His writing style combined adventure with social commentary, influencing the development of the modern novel. Despite his literary success, he struggled with debts throughout his life.
His impact on literature remains significant, as he pioneered realistic storytelling and first-person narration, shaping the English novel tradition.