The Storm: or, a Collection of the most Remarkable Casualties and Disasters which Happen'd in the Late Dreadful Tempest, both by Sea and Land

"The Storm" by Daniel Defoe is a historical account written in the early 18th century. This work details remarkable incidents and disasters that occurred during a devastating tempest that affected both land and sea. The book is notable for its mix of scientific inquiry and reflections on divine power, aiming to provide a serious record of the events that transpired during the storm while emphasizing its theological implications. The opening of the book establishes the author's intent to explore the natural causes of winds, leading to the catastrophic storm. Defoe reflects on ancient beliefs regarding weather phenomena and addresses contemporary skepticism about the extraordinary events he recounts. He lays a philosophical foundation for the discussion, intertwining observations from various authorities on meteorology with theological assertions about the presence and power of God in nature. This introductory section sets the stage for a detailed examination of the storm's impact and provides insight into the period’s understanding of natural disasters.