The Oxford Book of London

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All great cities inspire literature, but none has so consistently ignited the literary imagination like London. Writers, poets, historians, and artists have chronicled the capital's evolution from its humble origins to its status as a vibrant metropolis. This anthology captures the city's allure for both visitors and residents, spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day with wit, humor, and pathos. Among the contributors are those whose depictions have cemented London in the popular consciousness: Charles Dickens's fog-laden streets, Ben Jonson's satirical takes on low-life, and William Wordsworth's rapture over Westminster Bridge. Equally compelling are vivid portrayals of the down-and-out and the aristocracy, as well as the city's museums, theatres, galleries, and parks—all rendered in unforgettable verse and prose. Notable accounts include Daniel Defoe's reflections on the Plague year and the daily records of the Great Fire by John Evelyn and Samuel Pepys, alongside eye-witness accounts of coronations and funerals that convey an unmatched immediacy. The experiences of foreign visitors, the thrills and challenges of London buses and the Underground, and the sprawling suburbs contribute to a dazzling panorama. This anthology serves as both an introduction and a tribute to the fascinating city of London.