To what extent was the event shown in the painting (London Fire) a problem in London in the 17th century?

The depiction of the London Fire highlights a significant concern for residents in the 17th century. Fires in urban areas like London were particularly devastating due to the close proximity of wooden buildings and the absence of modern fire-fighting infrastructure, which made such disasters not only likely but also catastrophic. The Great Fire of London in 1666 is a prime example, devastating a large portion of the city and prompting widespread destruction.

This aligns with the option that indicates fires were one of several problems faced by residents. In addition to the threat of fire, London during the 17th century dealt with myriad issues such as overcrowding, disease outbreaks like the Great Plague in 1665, and social unrest. Therefore, while fires were undoubtedly a pressing issue, they existed within a broader spectrum of urban challenges that affected the daily lives and safety of Londoners.

The other options, while addressing different aspects of urban life, do not accurately capture the severity and multifaceted nature of the problems faced by residents, particularly the devastating impact of fires in conjunction with other issues.