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The Restoration: Pepys, the Royal Society and Wren

Study note

The reign of Charles II, after the monarchy was restored in 1660, was a time of notable achievements in science, writing and architecture. One famous figure of this period was Samuel Pepys, who kept a detailed diary that recorded events such as the Great Fire of London. Pepys is the diarist to remember, rather than Isaac Newton, Christopher Wren or Edmund Halley.

This period also saw the founding of the Royal Society, which is one of the oldest scientific societies in the world. Its members included some of the greatest scientists of the age, such as Sir Isaac Newton and Edmund Halley. The Royal Society was a scientific organisation, not a political party, trade union or sports club. After the Great Fire, Sir Christopher Wren helped rebuild London, including a new St Paul's Cathedral.

Memory tip: Charles II era: Pepys's diary, the Royal Society (Newton, Halley), Wren rebuilds London.

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Question 1 of 2

Who kept a famous diary describing events such as the Great Fire of London?

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The Restoration: Pepys, the Royal Society and Wren: questions, answers and explanations

  1. 1. Who kept a famous diary describing events such as the Great Fire of London?

    • Isaac Newton
    • Samuel Pepys
    • Edmund Halley
    • Christopher Wren

    Correct answer: Samuel Pepys

    Samuel Pepys wrote a celebrated diary of 17th-century London life.

  2. 2. The Royal Society is one of the oldest organisations of what kind?

    • Political parties
    • Sports clubs
    • Scientific societies
    • Trade unions

    Correct answer: Scientific societies

    The Royal Society is one of the world's oldest scientific societies.

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