Dr. Johnson's Works: Life, Poems, and Tales, Volume 1 / The Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D., in Nine Volumes

Name: Dr. Johnson's Works: Life, Poems, and Tales, Volume 1 / The Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D., in Nine Volumes
Author: Samuel Johnson

By Samuel Johnson

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About This Book

This volume gathers a wide assortment of the author's writings: a reflective essay on life and literary genius, lyric and satirical poems with translations and epitaphs, a philosophical prose tale that probes the search for human happiness, letters that reveal personal opinions and social ties, and various prefaces, sermons, and dramatic pieces presented with editorial notes. The selections emphasize moral inquiry, practical religion, and literary criticism, showcasing a dense, argumentative prose style alongside occasional wit and lyricism, and illustrating the writer's recurring concerns with mind, manners, and the duties of authorship.

About the Author

Samuel Johnson

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) was an influential English writer and lexicographer, best known for his comprehensive dictionary, "A Dictionary of the English Language," which laid the groundwork for modern lexicography. His literary contributions span various genres, including poetry, essays, and biography. Johnson's works often reflect his keen insight into human nature and society, as seen in his notable titles such as "A Journey to the Western Islands of Scotland" and "Lives of the English Poets." He was a prominent figure in the literary circles of his time, engaging with contemporaries like James Boswell, whose biography of Johnson remains a classic. His legacy endures in the realms of literature and language.