Historian A: John Harris – Economic Perspective

"Historian John Harris argues that the Great Fire of London was primarily a consequence of economic factors. He emphasizes that the city's economic importance as a trading hub motivated authorities to ignore building regulations that could prevent such disasters. Harris suggests that the fire exposed the negligence of wealthy merchants and city officials who prioritized commerce over safety. He also points out that the fire's destruction allowed for economic renewal through rebuilding efforts, which benefited the city's merchants and the economy as a whole."

Historian B: Elizabeth Graham – Social Perspective

"Historian Elizabeth Graham contends that the Great Fire was a social catastrophe that highlighted the poor living conditions and lack of city planning. She argues that the fire was worsened by overcrowded, poorly constructed houses made of wood and that it disproportionately affected the lower classes. Graham emphasizes that the fire revealed the social inequalities of early modern London, with the rich being able to evacuate or protect their properties. Her perspective underscores the fire's role in exposing social vulnerabilities rather than solely economic issues."