Correct option is A
These works in chronological order of their publication are as follows:
1. (B) Hobbes's "Leviathan" - Published in 1651, Thomas Hobbes's "Leviathan" is a foundational work of political philosophy. In it, Hobbes discusses the social contract theory and the necessity of a strong central authority to prevent a state of nature where life would be "nasty, brutish, and short."
2. (C) Pepys's "Diary" - Samuel Pepys's diary, which he kept from 1660 to 1669, provides invaluable insights into the daily life, politics, and culture of 17th-century England. It is a remarkable historical document.
3. (D) Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress" - John Bunyan's allegorical novel, "The Pilgrim's Progress," was first published in 1678. It is one of the most important works of Christian literature, depicting the spiritual journey of the protagonist, Christian, as he seeks salvation.
4. (E) Locke's "Essay Concerning Human Understanding" - John Locke's "Essay Concerning Human Understanding" was first published in 1690. It is a foundational work in modern philosophy that explores the nature of knowledge, the mind, and the concept of tabula rasa, or the blank slate.
5. (A) Boswell's "Life of Johnson" - James Boswell's biography of Samuel Johnson, titled "The Life of Samuel Johnson," was published in two volumes in 1791. It provides a comprehensive and intimate portrait of the renowned English writer and lexicographer, Samuel Johnson.
The correct chronological order of publication is (B, C, D, E, A). These works span different genres and fields, from political philosophy and literature to personal diaries and biography, and have had a significant impact on their respective areas of study.