6.3 Samuel Johnson's Contributions to English Literature and Lexicography
5 min read•august 13, 2024
Samuel Johnson's impact on English literature and language was huge. He wrote the first big English dictionary, setting standards for spelling and definitions that lasted for centuries.
Johnson's literary criticism shaped how people understood and valued English literature. His essays, poems, and biographies influenced writing styles and explored big ideas about life and society.
Samuel Johnson's Influence on English
Johnson's Role in Shaping the English Language and Literature
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- Samuel Johnson, often referred to as Dr. Johnson, was a prominent English writer, lexicographer, critic, and editor in the 18th century
- Johnson's works, including his Dictionary of the English Language, essays, and literary criticism, significantly influenced the development and standardization of the English language
- Johnson's writing style, characterized by its clarity, precision, and use of parallel structures, set a new standard for English prose in the 18th century (e.g., his essays in "" and "")
- Johnson's literary circle, which included notable figures such as Joshua Reynolds, Edmund Burke, and , contributed to the intellectual and cultural landscape of the time
Johnson's Impact on the English Literary Canon
- Johnson's "Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets" (1779-1781) provided a comprehensive and of English poetry, shaping the canon and influencing literary taste
- The work covered 52 poets, from the 17th century to Johnson's contemporaries
- Johnson's evaluations and rankings of poets helped establish a hierarchy of literary merit
- Johnson's Prefaces to Shakespeare's plays (1765) offered insightful analysis and helped to establish Shakespeare's reputation as a literary genius
- Johnson praised Shakespeare's ability to create complex, realistic characters and his mastery of language
- The Prefaces contributed to the growing appreciation of Shakespeare in the 18th century
Standardization Through Johnson's Dictionary
The Significance of Johnson's Dictionary
- Johnson's "," published in 1755, was the first comprehensive English dictionary and a landmark in the history of lexicography
- The dictionary took Johnson nine years to complete and was widely acclaimed upon publication
- It remained the preeminent English dictionary until the Oxford English Dictionary in the late 19th century
- The dictionary aimed to standardize the English language by providing clear definitions, etymologies, and illustrative quotations for over 40,000 words
- Johnson drew on a wide range of literary sources to provide examples of word usage
- The illustrative quotations showcased the evolution of the English language over time
The Impact of Johnson's Dictionary on English Standardization
- Johnson's dictionary established a more consistent spelling system and helped to stabilize the English language during a period of rapid change and expansion
- Johnson's spellings, though not always adopted universally, provided a model for standardization
- The dictionary helped to reduce the variability and inconsistency in English spelling
- The dictionary's definitions often reflected Johnson's wit, insight, and personal opinions, making it a work of literature in its own right
- Johnson's definitions could be humorous, sarcastic, or morally judgmental (e.g., his definition of "oats" as "a grain, which in England is generally given to horses, but in Scotland supports the people")
- The personality and intellect evident in the definitions contributed to the dictionary's popularity and influence
Johnson's Impact on Literary Criticism
Johnson's Approach to Literary Criticism
- Johnson's literary criticism, exemplified in works such as "Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets" and his Prefaces to Shakespeare's plays, set new standards for the critical analysis of literature
- Johnson's approach to criticism emphasized close reading, historical context, and moral judgment, departing from the more impressionistic and subjective criticism of his predecessors
- Johnson believed in evaluating works based on their adherence to classical principles and their moral and didactic value
- He stressed the importance of considering a work's historical and cultural context in interpretation
The Influence of Johnson's Critical Opinions
- Johnson's critical opinions, while sometimes controversial, had a lasting impact on the interpretation and appreciation of English literature
- His assessments of individual authors and works shaped literary tastes and reputations
- Johnson's criticism sparked debates and discussions that continued long after his death
- Johnson's emphasis on the moral and didactic function of literature influenced the development of English literary criticism well into the 19th century
- He believed that literature should instruct as well as delight, promoting virtue and wisdom
- This view aligned with the Neoclassical ideals prevalent in the 18th century and resonated with subsequent generations of critics
Johnson's Contributions to Literary Genres
Johnson's Satirical Poetry
- As a poet, Johnson is best known for his satirical works, such as "London" (1738) and "The Vanity of Human Wishes" (1749), which critique contemporary society and
- "London" is a biting of the city's vices and corruptions, modeled after Juvenal's Third Satire
- "The Vanity of Human Wishes" is a more philosophical poem that reflects on the futility of worldly ambitions and the transience of human life
Johnson's Essays and Philosophical Works
- Johnson's essays, published in periodicals such as "The Rambler" (1750-1752) and "The Idler" (1758-1760), cover a wide range of topics and are noted for their moral insights and stylistic elegance
- The essays often explore themes of human nature, ethics, and societal issues
- Johnson's writing style in the essays is characterized by balance, antithesis, and a strong sense of moral conviction
- Johnson's philosophical tale "Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia" (1759) explores themes of happiness, ambition, and the human condition, reflecting his views on moral and existential questions
- The work follows the journey of Prince Rasselas as he searches for the meaning of life and true happiness
- Through the characters' experiences and discussions, Johnson grapples with the nature of human aspirations and the limitations of worldly pursuits
Johnson's Contributions to Biography
- Johnson's "The Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets" (1779-1781) is considered a landmark in the development of biographical writing, combining factual accounts with critical analysis and anecdotal details
- The work provides a vivid and engaging portrait of each poet's life, character, and literary achievements
- Johnson's approach to biography influenced the genre's evolution towards a more comprehensive and analytical style
- Johnson's own life and character, as recorded in James Boswell's "The Life of Samuel Johnson" (1791), became a model for modern biography and contributed to his enduring reputation as a literary figure
- Boswell's biography is notable for its detailed, intimate portrayal of Johnson's personality, habits, and conversations
- The work set a new standard for biographical writing and helped to cement Johnson's status as a cultural icon
Key Terms to Review (18)
A Dictionary of the English Language: A Dictionary of the English Language, compiled by Samuel Johnson and published in 1755, is a landmark work that played a crucial role in the standardization and development of English lexicography. It not only defined words but also documented their usage, etymology, and varied meanings, making it a comprehensive reference for understanding the English language. This dictionary helped to establish a more consistent vocabulary and spelling, reflecting the linguistic changes and needs of the 18th century.
Critical analysis: Critical analysis is the process of evaluating and interpreting a text, considering its various elements such as themes, structure, and the author's intent. This method goes beyond merely summarizing the content; it involves dissecting the work to understand deeper meanings and implications, often examining historical, social, and cultural contexts that influence the text. By applying critical thinking skills, one can engage more thoroughly with literature, revealing insights that enhance comprehension and appreciation.
Essay: An essay is a short piece of writing that presents an argument, interpretation, or perspective on a specific topic. It is characterized by a personal tone and often reflects the author's views and reasoning. The rise of the essay as a literary form during the Enlightenment marked a significant shift in literature and thought, enabling writers to explore complex ideas and engage with contemporary issues in a more accessible manner.
Etymology: Etymology is the study of the origin of words and how their meanings and forms have changed throughout history. Understanding etymology can reveal insights into a language's evolution, cultural influences, and the connections between words. This knowledge is especially important in the context of literature, as it can deepen comprehension of texts by uncovering layers of meaning and historical context behind the language used.
Human nature: Human nature refers to the inherent characteristics, behaviors, and instincts that define what it means to be human. It encompasses our capacities for reason, emotion, morality, and social interaction, often explored through literature to reflect on societal values and human flaws.
James Boswell: James Boswell was a Scottish biographer and diarist, best known for his extensive biography of Samuel Johnson, which has become a classic in English literature. His work provides invaluable insights into Johnson's life and the cultural landscape of the 18th century, establishing Boswell as a significant figure in both literature and the art of biography.
Jonathan Swift: Jonathan Swift was an Irish satirist, essayist, and political pamphleteer, best known for his works like 'A Modest Proposal' and 'Gulliver's Travels.' His sharp wit and keen observations on society make him a pivotal figure in the literature of the Restoration and early eighteenth century.
Literary authority: Literary authority refers to the power or legitimacy that an author or text holds within the realm of literature, influencing how works are interpreted, valued, and received. This concept can encompass the author's reputation, their mastery of language and form, as well as the cultural and historical contexts that contribute to their perceived significance. An understanding of literary authority allows for an appreciation of how certain voices dominate literary discourse and shape literary canon.
Morality: Morality refers to the principles and standards that determine what is right or wrong, good or bad in human conduct. It plays a crucial role in shaping societal values and individual behaviors, often reflected through literature and public discourse. The exploration of morality during the Restoration and Early Eighteenth Century highlights its significance in guiding human relationships, ethical reasoning, and social norms.
Neoclassicism: Neoclassicism is a literary and artistic movement that emerged in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, characterized by a revival of classical ideals from Ancient Greece and Rome. It emphasizes reason, order, and harmony, reflecting the belief in rationality and the value of classical works as models for contemporary creativity.
Neologism: A neologism is a newly coined word or expression that may be in the process of entering common usage but hasn't yet become widely accepted. Neologisms often arise to describe new concepts, technologies, or cultural phenomena, reflecting the dynamic nature of language as it evolves to meet changing societal needs.
Samuel Johnson's Contributions to English Literature and Lexicography: Samuel Johnson made significant contributions to English literature and lexicography, notably through his role as a lexicographer and his influential writings. His most renowned work, 'A Dictionary of the English Language', published in 1755, set new standards for dictionary-making by providing comprehensive definitions, literary examples, and etymologies, which helped to establish a more systematic approach to the English language.
Satire: Satire is a literary technique used to expose and criticize foolishness, corruption, or societal shortcomings through humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule. This method often aims to provoke thought and inspire change by highlighting flaws in human behavior or institutions, making it a powerful tool in both literature and social commentary.
The Enlightenment: The Enlightenment was an intellectual and cultural movement that emerged in the late 17th and 18th centuries, emphasizing reason, science, and individualism over tradition and religious authority. This period fostered a spirit of inquiry and skepticism that led to advancements in philosophy, literature, and the sciences, fundamentally reshaping society's views on governance, morality, and human nature.
The Idler: The Idler is a periodical essay series published by Samuel Johnson that emphasizes leisurely contemplation and the appreciation of the everyday aspects of life. It presents a character who reflects on various themes such as society, morality, and human nature, often engaging in humorous or satirical observations. This series showcases Johnson's wit and philosophical insights, reflecting his contributions to the literary landscape of the Restoration and Early Eighteenth Century.
The lives of the poets: The lives of the poets refers to the personal histories, experiences, and contexts of influential poets, which significantly shape their literary works and contributions. Understanding these lives provides insight into how their social backgrounds, relationships, and historical events influenced their writing styles, themes, and perspectives. This term is essential for comprehending the broader impact these poets had on literature and society during their time.
The Rambler: The Rambler was a series of essays published by Samuel Johnson between 1750 and 1752, focusing on moral and philosophical themes while reflecting on contemporary society. It served as a platform for Johnson to express his views on ethics, literature, and human behavior, highlighting the importance of reason and observation in understanding the world. The essays not only showcased Johnson's literary prowess but also mirrored the evolving ideas of the Enlightenment, influenced by thinkers like Locke and Newton.
Usage Notes: Usage notes are specific comments or guidelines provided in dictionaries or style guides that help clarify the correct or preferred use of words, phrases, or grammatical constructions. They often include information about common pitfalls, distinctions between similar terms, and advice on register, tone, or context, thereby enriching a reader's understanding of language.