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Cover of William Lilly's History of His Life and Times, from the Year 1602 to 1681

William Lilly's History of His Life and Times, from the Year 1602 to 1681

Written by William Lilly

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AstrologyAstrologersLilly, William, 1602-1681

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About this book

"William Lilly's History of His Life and Times, from the Year 1602 to 1681" by Lilly is a historical account written during the early 18th century. The work serves as a memoir and chronicles the life of Lilly himself, providing a fascinating glimpse into his experiences during a tumultuous period in English history, particularly focusing on astrology and his role within it. At the start of this memoir, Lilly introduces himself and reflects on his humble beginnings in Diseworth, highlighting the obscurity of his town and family. He recounts personal details about his upbringing, education, and early influences that shaped his interest in astrology. The tone is candid and intimate, detailing not only his family history but also his educational journey and the significant people he encountered, which set the stage for his later prominence in astrological circles and societal events throughout the 17th century. This opening lays an intriguing foundation for understanding both his character and the historical context in which he operated.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in William Lilly's History of His Life and Times, from the Year 1602 to 1681, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 10 hours
  • advanced
  • historical
  • reflective
  • candid

William Lilly's 'History of His Life and Times, from the Year 1602 to 1681' is a compelling autobiographical account from a prominent 17th-century English astrologer. This memoir chronicles Lilly's journey from his humble origins in Diseworth to becoming a highly influential, albeit controversial, figure during the tumultuous period of the English Civil War and Restoration. Through candid reflections, Lilly details his education, the development of his astrological practice, and his interactions with powerful political and social figures of his era. The work offers a unique first-person perspective on the intersection of personal ambition, societal belief in the occult, and major historical events, providing invaluable insights into 17th-century English life and thought.

“I was born in the year of our Lord 1602, the first day of May, at 55 minutes past 12 o'clock, being Sunday, in the town of Diseworth, in the county of Leicester, of honest parents, though of no great repute.”

Key themes

Astrology and Occult Beliefs
This is the central theme, exploring the pervasive role of astrology in 17th-century English society, not merely as superstition but as a respected, albeit debated, form of knowledge. Lilly meticulously details his methods, the acceptance of his predictions by powerful figures, and his defense of astrology as a divinely sanctioned science capable of revealing future events and human destinies.
Fate vs. Free Will
Inherent in the practice of astrology is the tension between predetermined destiny and human agency. Lilly, while a proponent of astrological prediction, often discusses the role of divine will and human choice, suggesting a complex interplay. He believes celestial influences incline but do not compel, allowing for moral responsibility and the possibility of mitigating negative planetary effects through virtuous action.
Political Turmoil and Conflict
The memoir provides a unique, ground-level perspective on the political chaos of 17th-century England, particularly the English Civil War, the Interregnum, and the Restoration. Lilly's position as an astrologer consulted by all sides places him at the nexus of political intrigue, offering insights into the anxieties, hopes, and strategies of the various factions.

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To what extent can historical autobiographies like Lilly's be considered reliable sources, given the author's inherent biases?

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