Samuel Johnson

From Citizendium, the Citizens' Compendium

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) was one of the leading figures of English literature's Augustan Age. Often referred to simply as Dr. Johnson, he was one of the foremost literary scholars and writers of his day. He is also known for his witty conversation, much of which was recorded by his first biographer, James Boswell. He is responsible, for example for the aphorism, "No man but a blockhead ever wrote, except for money".

Contents 1 Early life 2 London 3 The Dictionary 4 Later Years

Early life

Samuel Johnson was born September 18th 1709 in Lichfield, Staffordshire to Michael and Sarah Johnson. His father was a bookseller; the family business would provide a major supplement to Johnson's formal education, as he had access to the works of classical literature from his father's stock.

As a child, Johnson suffered from scrofula. He was touched by Queen Anne in accordance with a widespread belief that the royal touch could cure it. Health problems would continue throughout his life.

Johnson received the first portion of his formal education at the local grammar school. By 1728, the Johnsons were able to send him to Pembroke College at Oxford. This was not to last; after thirteen months, Johnson was forced to withdraw for want of funds. The advanced degrees Johnson would claim later in life were honoris causa, given after his literary accomplishments.

Johnson entered the family trade as a bookseller for two years. In 1735 he married a widow, Elizabeth Porter. Johnson tried, with indifferent success, to launch a career as a schoolmaster. The school he started would fail, but one of his students, David Garrick would become one of the leading actors and producers of the day. His association with Garrick would lead him to London and mark the beginning of his career as a professional writer.

London

The Dictionary

Later Years