Samuel Johnson English Writer, Lexicographer, and Critic

Samuel Johnson (born September 18, 1709 – died December 13, 1784) was an English writer, poet, essayist, moralist, literary critic, biographer, editor, and lexicographer. He is best known for his monumental work, A Dictionary of the English Language (1755), which had a profound impact on English lexicography.

Born in Lichfield, Staffordshire, Johnson rose from modest beginnings to become one of the most influential figures in 18th-century English literature. His wit, moral insight, and command of language made him a central figure in London's literary circles.

In addition to his dictionary, Johnson wrote essays, poems, biographies, and critical works, including The Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets. His conversational skill and sharp intellect were immortalized by his friend James Boswell in The Life of Samuel Johnson, regarded as one of the greatest biographies in the English language.

Johnson's life was marked by physical ailments and financial struggles, yet he maintained an unwavering dedication to literature and moral philosophy.

Major Works and Influence

Johnson's Dictionary remained the pre-eminent English dictionary for over 150 years until the completion of the Oxford English Dictionary. His essays in The Rambler and The Idler offered profound reflections on morality, literature, and human behavior.

Personality and Legacy

Known for his sharp wit, moral steadfastness, and deep empathy, Johnson influenced generations of writers and thinkers. His moral essays and literary criticism continue to be studied for their depth and stylistic brilliance.

Death and Remembrance

Samuel Johnson died on December 13, 1784, in London. He is buried in Westminster Abbey, and his legacy endures as a pillar of English literature and lexicography.

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Samuel Johnson — Major Works & Key Publications

References

• Encyclopaedia Britannica – Samuel Johnson
• Yale Digital Edition – The Works of Samuel Johnson
• Yale Digital Edition – Browse by Volume
• Yale University Press – Johnson on Shakespeare (Yale Edition)
• Encyclopaedia Britannica – Samuel Johnson (Summary)
• Wikipedia – Samuel Johnson

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