Brief Lives

The collection features biographical sketches of notable British figures, showcasing John Aubrey's unique blend of factual detail and personal anecdotes. Unpublished during his lifetime, these sketches were compiled from Aubrey's extensive manuscripts, reflecting his talent as a researcher and conversationalist. The work humanizes historical icons like John Milton and William Shakespeare, revealing their complexities and everyday lives. This edition, enhanced for modern readers, preserves Aubrey's insights into the cultural and intellectual landscape of early-modern Britain.