The Cambridge Companion to Samuel Johnson (Cambridge Companions to Literature) - Hardcover

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 052155411X ISBN 13: 9780521554114

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1997

Synopsis

The Cambridge Companion to Samuel Johnson, first published in 1997, provides an introduction to the works and intellectual life of one of the most challenging and wide-ranging writers in English literary history. Compiler of the first great English dictionary, editor of Shakespeare, biographer and critic of the English poets, author both of the influential journal Rambler and the popular fiction Rasselas, and one of the most engaging conversationalists in literary culture, Johnson is here illuminatingly discussed from a different point of view. Essays on his main works are complemented by thematic discussion of his views on the experience of women in the eighteenth century, politics, imperialism, religion, and travel as well as by chapters covering his life, conversation, letters, and critical reception. Useful reference features include a chronology and guide to further reading. The keynote to the volume is the seamlessness of Johnson's life and writing, and the extraordinary humane intelligence he brought to all his activities. Accessibly written by a distinguished group of international scholars, this volume supplies a stimulating range of approaches, making Johnson newly relevant for our time.

About this title

Review:

'The Cambridge Companion to Samuel Johnson is not only an outstanding critical introduction to 'The Great Cham of Literature', it provides relevant background to the world in which he lived. There are notes appended to chapters and portraits and other illustrations, notably by Hogarth.' Library Association Record

'The Cambridge Companion to Samuel Johnson more than fulfils the goals which its sets for itself: it provides a comprehensive, interesting, and reliable introduction to Johnsonian studies.' The New Rambler

'The Cambridge Companion to Samuel Johnson is not only an outstanding critical introduction to 'The Great Cham of Literature', it provides relevant background to the world in which he lived. There are notes appended to chapters and portraits and other illustrations, notably by Hogarth.' Library Association Record

Book Description:

This Companion, first published in 1997, provides an introduction and guide to the works and life of one of the most challenging and wide-ranging writers in English literary history. Chapters on the major works, his life, conversation, letters, and critical reception feature alongside fresh thematic essays, a chronology, and guide to further reading.

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 1997
• ISBN 10: 052155411X
• ISBN 13: 9780521554114
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 286
• Editor: Clingham Greg