Samuel Johnson

Birth: 1709-09-18 , Lichfield

Death: 1784-12-13 , Londres

Samuel Johnson was a prominent 18th-century English writer, lexicographer, essayist, poet, and literary critic. He is widely regarded as one of the most important literary figures in British history, famous for his 'A Dictionary of the English Language'.

9,407

Views

Poems List

Fraud and falsehood only dread examination. Truth invites it.

Courage is the greatest of all virtues, because if you haven't courage, you may not have an opportunity to use any of the others.

The natural flights of the human mind are not from pleasure to pleasure but from hope to hope.

Praise, like gold and diamonds, owes its value only to its scarcity.

The vanity of being known to be entrusted with a secret is generally one of the chief motives to disclose it.

In order that all men may be taught to speak truth, it is necessary that all likewise should learn to hear it.

He who praises everybody praises nobody.

Great works are performed, not by strength, but by perseverance.

I consider that in no government power can be abused long. Mankind will not bear it. If a sovereign oppresses his people to a great degree, they will rise and cut off his head. There is a remedy in human nature against tyranny, that will keep us safe under every form of government.

There are, in every age, new errors to be rectified and new prejudices to be opposed.

Comments (0)

ShareOn Facebook WhatsApp X

NoComments

Samuel Johnson (18 September 1709 – 13 December 1784) was an English writer who became one of the most celebrated intellectuals of his time. Born in Lichfield, Staffordshire, he struggled with ill health and financial difficulties for much of his life. His most influential work, 'A Dictionary of the English Language' (1755), was a landmark in English lexicography, defining the vocabulary and spelling of the language. Johnson also produced insightful essays, sermons, poems, and biographies, including 'Lives of the Poets'. He was a central figure in London's literary circles, known for his sharp wit, brilliant conversation, and strong opinions. His life and work were immortalized in James Boswell's 'Life of Samuel Johnson', one of the most important biographies in English literature.