John Aubrey

John Aubrey (1626-1697) was an English antiquarian, natural philosopher, and writer best known for his collection of brief biographical sketches titled "Brief Lives." The work provided intimate portraits of his contemporaries and notable figures from 17th century England, combining gossip, observation, and historical detail. Aubrey made significant contributions to archaeology through his detailed recordings of megalithic monuments, particularly Stonehenge and Avebury. His methodical approach to documenting these sites, including creating careful drawings and measurements, established important foundations for modern archaeological practices. Beyond his biographical and archaeological work, Aubrey collected folk customs, traditions, and superstitions from across England. His manuscript "Remaines of Gentilisme and Judaisme" documented these findings, though like many of his works, it remained unpublished during his lifetime. While Aubrey struggled financially throughout his life and never completed many of his projects, his writings have become valuable historical sources that offer unique insights into 17th century English society and culture. His informal, observant style and attention to everyday details have made his works particularly useful to modern historians and biographers.

Modern readers appreciate Aubrey's candid, intimate portraits of historical figures in "Brief Lives." Many note his gossipy yet observant style captures personalities that formal histories miss. One Goodreads reviewer called it "the 17th century equivalent of reading someone's private blog." Readers highlight his keen eye for memorable details and ability to humanize historical figures through anecdotes. His archaeological recordings earn praise for their precision and methodology. Common criticisms include his scattered writing style, incomplete works, and tendency to include unverified rumors. Some readers find his digressions frustrating. As one Amazon reviewer noted: "Fascinating content but desperately needs editing." Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (300+ ratings) Amazon: 3.8/5 (50+ ratings) - "Brief Lives": 4.2/5 - "The Natural History of Wiltshire": 3.5/5 Most negative reviews focus on organization and accessibility rather than content quality. Academic readers tend to rate his works higher than general readers seeking casual historical reading.

Brief Lives (1693) A collection of biographical sketches of notable 17th-century figures, including scientists, writers, and politicians, based on Aubrey's personal observations and gathered information.

Miscellanies (1696) A compilation of accounts relating to supernatural occurrences, dreams, omens, and various folklore collected throughout Aubrey's life.

The Natural History of Wiltshire (written 1656-1691; published 1847) A detailed survey of Wiltshire's geography, archaeology, customs, and natural features, including observations of local antiquities and landscapes.

Monumenta Britannica (written 1665-1693; published 1980-1982) A systematic study of British prehistoric and medieval monuments, with particular focus on Stonehenge and other megalithic structures.

Remaines of Gentilisme and Judaisme (written 1687-1689; published 1881) An examination of English customs, traditions, and superstitions traced to their pagan and Jewish origins.

Perambulation of Surrey (written 1673-1692; published 1951) A topographical survey of Surrey county, including descriptions of its parishes, notable buildings, and local history.

Samuel Pepys wrote detailed personal accounts of 17th century London life and society in his famous diary. Like Aubrey, he documented firsthand observations of notable figures and everyday happenings during the Restoration period.

Anthony Wood collaborated with Aubrey on biographical works and maintained extensive records of Oxford University scholars and personalities. His methods of gathering information through interviews and correspondence mirror Aubrey's biographical approach.

Thomas Fuller compiled biographical sketches of English worthies and church figures in the 17th century. His work "Worthies of England" shares similarities with Aubrey's "Brief Lives" in its mix of biographical facts and anecdotes.

Robert Plot wrote natural histories of English counties and collected accounts of local phenomena and customs. His systematic documentation of regional knowledge aligns with Aubrey's interest in antiquities and local history.

William Dugdale produced surveys of English monuments and recorded genealogical information about prominent families. His antiquarian research methods and focus on preserving historical information parallel Aubrey's documentary practices.