Lives of Poets by Samuel Johnson

Lives of Poets:  

"The Lives of the Poets" is a famous literary work written by Samuel Johnson, an 18th-century English writer, lexicographer, and critic. It is a collection of biographical sketches of 52 English poets, spanning from the 17th century to Johnson's contemporary era.

In "The Lives of the Poets," Samuel Johnson examines the lives, works, and literary contributions of various poets. Johnson's intention was to provide critical evaluations of these poets, shedding light on their achievements, styles, and influences. The work is known for its blend of biography, literary criticism, and Johnson's distinctive writing style.

Johnson's biographical approach in "The Lives of the Poets" provides readers with insights into the personal lives and experiences of these poets. He explores their upbringing, education, influences, relationships, and often includes anecdotes and details that help to contextualize their work.

Moreover, Johnson's critical analysis delves into the poetic techniques, themes, and merits of each poet. He examines their contributions to English literature, the impact of their work on the literary landscape, and their place within the canon of poetry.

Some of the poets covered in "The Lives of the Poets" include John Milton, Alexander Pope, Jonathan Swift, John Dryden, and many others. Johnson's assessments are often candid and subjective, reflecting his own literary preferences and opinions. He offers praise for poets whose work he admires, while also providing insightful and sometimes harsh critiques of those he finds lacking.

"The Lives of the Poets" is a significant work in the history of literary criticism and remains influential to this day. It provides readers with a valuable resource for understanding the lives and works of several important English poets, as well as Johnson's thoughts on poetry and the craft of writing.

Certainly! Here are a few more details about Samuel Johnson's "The Lives of the Poets":

1. Historical Context: "The Lives of the Poets" was published in 1779, toward the end of Johnson's life. It was one of his last major literary works and is considered a significant contribution to English literary criticism.
2. Motivation for Writing: Johnson wrote "The Lives of the Poets" in response to a request from a group of booksellers who wanted him to write short biographies of the poets whose works they were publishing. However, Johnson's approach expanded beyond mere biographical sketches and delved into critical analysis and evaluation.
3. Biographical Style: Johnson's biographies in "The Lives of the Poets" are not purely objective and detached. He incorporates his own opinions, judgments, and anecdotes, giving readers a sense of his own literary tastes and biases.
4. Literary Criticism: Alongside the biographical aspects, Johnson provides critical assessments of the poets' works. He discusses their strengths, weaknesses, and contributions to the literary tradition. His evaluations often reflect his belief in the importance of moral and didactic elements in poetry.
5. Influential Work: "The Lives of the Poets" had a lasting impact on the study of English literature and became an influential model for biographical and critical writing. Johnson's approach of blending biography with literary analysis was highly regarded and has influenced subsequent generations of literary critics.
6. Notable Figures: Johnson's selection of poets in "The Lives of the Poets" spans several centuries and includes both well-known and lesser-known writers. He covers a wide range of poetic styles and genres, providing a comprehensive overview of English poetry up to his time.
7. Literary Style: Johnson's prose in "The Lives of the Poets" is known for its clarity, wit, and elegance. His writing displays a mastery of the English language and showcases his talent as a lexicographer, a field in which he achieved great fame with his "A Dictionary of the English Language."

Overall, "The Lives of the Poets" is a significant work that showcases Samuel Johnson's skill as a biographer, critic, and writer. It offers readers a blend of biography and literary analysis, providing valuable insights into the lives and works of notable English poets.