Samuel Pepys's wife, Elizabeth Pepys, always slept with her keys in her hand. This peculiar habit is documented in Pepys's famous diary, where he writes about Elizabeth's nightly routine of clutching her keys while she slept.

According to Pepys, Elizabeth believed that keeping her keys close at hand would protect her from intruders or thieves during the night. This practice was not uncommon during the 17th century, when security was a major concern for many people.

It is interesting to note that Elizabeth's habit of sleeping with her keys in her hand was not just a security measure, but also a symbolic gesture. In a time when women had limited rights and freedoms, the keys to the household were often seen as a symbol of power and authority. By holding onto her keys while she slept, Elizabeth may have been asserting her own sense of control and independence within the confines of her marriage.

Samuel Pepys's diary provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives and habits of people living in 17th century England. The fact that Elizabeth Pepys always slept with her keys in her hand highlights the importance of security and personal autonomy during this period.

Today, sleeping with keys in hand may seem like an outdated or unnecessary practice. However, it serves as a reminder of the different customs and beliefs that have shaped human behavior throughout history.

In conclusion, Samuel Pepys's wife, Elizabeth Pepys, always slept with her keys in her hand as a means of security and perhaps as a symbolic gesture of power and control. This habit, documented in Pepys's diary, offers a unique insight into the daily life of a woman living in 17th century England.

Sign Up