Samuel Johnson

Synopsis

Samuel Johnson's literary reputation rests on such a varied output that he defies easy description: poet, critic, lexicographer, travel writer, essayist, editor, and, thanks to his good friend Boswell, the subject of one of the most famous English biographies.

This volume celebrates Johnson's astonishing talent by selecting widely across the full range of his work. It includes "London" and "The Vanity of Human Wishes" among other poems, and many of his essays for theRamblerandIdler. The prefaces to his edition of Shakespeare and his famous Dictionary, together with samples from the texts, are given, as well as selections fromA Journey to the Western Islands of Scotland, theLives of the Poets, andRasselasin its entirety. There is also a substantial representation of lesser-known prose, and of his poetry, letters, and journals.

This edition represents the single most comprehensive anthology of Johnson's works. With a new, modern package this is an invaluble classic to add to your collection.