Samuel Johnson

Definition

Samuel Johnson was an influential English writer and lexicographer, best known for his contributions to 18th-century literature, including his dictionary, which set a standard for future dictionaries. His works reflect the ideals of Neoclassicism, emphasizing reason, order, and clarity in both prose and poetry, while his critical writings shaped the landscape of literary criticism during the period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Samuel Johnson's Dictionary of the English Language was one of the first comprehensive dictionaries in English and took nearly a decade to complete.
2. Johnson was not only a lexicographer but also a poet, essayist, and biographer; his works often highlighted moral and philosophical themes.
3. He played a key role in establishing literary criticism as a significant genre, particularly through his prefaces and reviews.
4. Johnson's friendships with other prominent writers, like James Boswell, led to significant biographical accounts that continue to shape our understanding of his life and work.
5. He is often credited with popularizing the essay form in English literature through his various periodical publications.

Review Questions

• How did Samuel Johnson's contributions to literature reflect the principles of Neoclassicism?
  • Samuel Johnson's works exemplified Neoclassical principles through their focus on reason, order, and clarity. His writing often adhered to classical forms and sought to teach moral lessons, aligning with the Neoclassical emphasis on decorum and restraint. The precision in his dictionary and the structured nature of his essays demonstrated an appreciation for clarity and logic that defined Neoclassical literature.
• Discuss the significance of Johnson's Dictionary of the English Language in relation to 18th-century literary standards.
  • Johnson's Dictionary was groundbreaking for its time and set a new standard for dictionary-making in the 18th century. It not only provided definitions but also contextualized words within sentences, illustrating their proper usage. This comprehensive approach enhanced communication and education, shaping how language was understood and used in literature during that period, ultimately influencing writers who followed.
• Evaluate how Samuel Johnson's essays contributed to literary criticism as a distinct genre during his time.
  • Samuel Johnson's essays established literary criticism as a vital genre by blending personal insights with broader cultural critiques. His ability to analyze literary works while engaging with moral questions provided a framework that later critics would follow. By prioritizing clarity and reasoned argumentation in his critiques, Johnson helped shape expectations for future literary analysis, solidifying its importance in 18th-century literature and beyond.

Related terms

Dictionary of the English Language: A groundbreaking work published in 1755 by Samuel Johnson that provided definitions, usage examples, and etymology, significantly influencing the development of the English language.

The Rambler: A series of periodical essays written by Samuel Johnson that offered reflections on life and moral philosophy, showcasing his ability to blend personal experience with broader societal themes.

Neoclassicism: An artistic and literary movement characterized by an appreciation for classical antiquity and the values of reason, symmetry, and adherence to established forms, greatly influencing writers like Samuel Johnson.