The Notorious Impostor (1692); Diego Redivivus (1692)

"The Notorious Impostor (1692); Diego Redivivus (1692)" by Elkanah Settle is an early fictional tale blending real-life events with the escapades of William Morrell, a master of disguise and trickery in 17th-century England, and likely was written in the 17th century. Morrell begins as a struggling surgeon who turns to impersonating wealthy gentlemen to swindle unsuspecting people, moving amongst the upper class as he carries out his elaborate scams. The story creates wry humor and an ironic awareness of society, highlighting both Morrell’s deceitful nature and the naivety of those he fools, as he lies and steals his way across the English countryside. The narrative style introduces a world where appearance and reality clash, promising a series of daring misadventures fueled by ambition and cunning.