London Labour and the London Poor

This influential investigation by Henry Mayhew in the 1850s explores the lives of London's underclass through vivid interviews, revealing the struggles of street traders and beggars in Victorian society.

London Labour and the London Poor, authored by Henry Mayhew in the 1850s, presents a detailed investigation into the lives of the city's underclass. Through a series of interviews with street traders, beggars, and thieves, Mayhew crafts a narrative that is as engaging as a Victorian novel. This edition features original illustrations alongside a thoughtful introduction and notes that enhance the reader's understanding of the work's significance.

Mayhew's extensive interviews reveal the stark realities faced by London's impoverished population, illustrating the closeness of the so-called 'two nations' of rich and poor in Victorian Britain. His accounts are both alarming and poignant, capturing the struggles of costermongers, sewer scavengers, and chimney sweeps. The vivid details of their daily lives provide an unprecedented glimpse into their fight for survival, showcasing Mayhew's empathetic approach and literary skill.

This new selection offers a representative sample of Mayhew's original volumes, enriched by evocative illustrations and a comprehensive introduction that explores his influence and the context of his work. As part of the Oxford World's Classics series, this edition not only preserves Mayhew's groundbreaking journalism but also emphasizes the importance of scholarship, with valuable features such as expert introductions and helpful notes for further study. Overall, London Labour and the London Poor stands as a remarkable contribution to literature and sociology, shedding light on a hidden world.