The Closet of Sir Kenelm Digby Knight Opened, commonly referred to as simply The Closet Opened, is an interesting text with a bit of a misleading title. Here's a breakdown:
Authorship:
- Attributed to Sir Kenelm Digby, a polymath of the 17th century with a vast range of interests.
- However, the book was actually published in 1669 with the "consent" of his son, implying it might be based on his writings or compiled from various sources.
Content:
- Primarily a recipe book, focusing on traditional English dishes like meat pies, pasties, and syllabub.
- Offers a glimpse into 17th-century English cuisine.
- Hints at Digby's travels and social circles with recipes like "Lord George's Meathe" and "The Sweet Drink of My Lady Stuart."
- Might also include some recipes reflecting Digby's scientific interests, such as "Dr Harvey's Pleasant Water Cider."
Overall Significance:
- Valuable resource for researchers interested in 17th-century English food culture and social history.
- Provides insights into the dietary habits of the nobility and gentry.
- Offers a chance to try historical recipes, although some adaptations for modern kitchens might be necessary.
The Title:
- "Closet" likely refers to a private room where valuables or special possessions are kept.
- In this context, the "closet" metaphor suggests the book holds a collection of treasured recipes.
- "Sir Kenelm Digby Knight" is part of the book's full title and doesn't necessarily indicate his sole authorship.
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