The life and times of the Rev. Samuel Wesley / Rector of Epworth and father of the Revs. John and Charles Wesley, the founders of the Methodists

The biography reconstructs Samuel Wesley's life and milieu, beginning with the political and ecclesiastical turbulence of his era and proceeding through his education, clerical duties, literary output, and family life, notably as the father of John and Charles Wesley. It assesses his character, controversies, and public writings, situating his actions within wider national and church conflicts, and draws on contemporary documents, correspondence, published tracts, and earlier memoirs. The author includes selections of letters, bibliographic appendices, and a portrait, and offers commentary aimed at balancing existing judgments about his temperament and influence.