Samuel Johnson
Writer
A towering figure of 18th century English literature, Samuel Johnson (also known as Dr. Johnson) gained fame from his conversation and wit as much as from his writings. The son of a bookseller, Johnson moved to London in the 1730s and tried to make a living as a writer. He had modest success writing poems, political essays and plays during the 1740s, but after his publication of A Dictionary of the English Language (1755) he was a national sensation. His social life for many years revolved around Henry and Hester Thrale, who hosted parties where Johnson and others -- including James Boswell -- could engage in intellectual discussions. Boswell's Life of Samuel Johnson (1791) ensured Johnson's place in history. Other works by Johnson include his essays for The Rambler (1750-52) and The Idler (1758-60), an eight-volume edition of the works of William Shakespeare (1765), and The Lives of the Poets (1779-81).Extra credit: "Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel" is one of Johnson's most famous quips.
Four Good Links
Samuel Johnson
Amazing tribute from a serious fan
The Samuel Johnson Soundbite Page
Great place to read Johnson quotes
Henry and Hester Thrale
Johnson students should read up on his association with the Thrales
The Johnson Society
You can read a biography without having to join up!
Vital Stats
Birth
Birthplace
Death
13 December 1784
(age 75)
Best Known As
Author of 1755's A Dictionary of the English Language
