James Boswell & Grosvenor Osgood 
The Life of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. 
The Complete Unabridged Edition in 6 Volumes): Including the Journal & Diary

In ‘The Life of Samuel Johnson, LL.D., ‘ editors James Boswell and Grosvenor Osgood curate an anthology that captures the rich tapestry of 18th-century literary life through the prism of Samuel Johnson, one of its most vibrant figures. This collection not only showcases a range of literary styles, from biographical anecdotes to critical essays, but also highlights the diversity and dynamism of the era’s intellectual circles. The anthology stands out for its comprehensive look at Johnson’s multifaceted contributions to literature, philosophy, and criticism, offering readers a unique lens through which to explore the period’s literary diversity and its social and cultural contexts. The inclusion of Boswell’s own renowned work, renowned for its detailed portrayal of Johnson, alongside Osgood’s insightful analyses, ensures a richly textured reading experience that honors the legacy of Johnson’s towering intellect. The contributing editors, James Boswell and Grosvenor Osgood, bring together a compelling mix of historical insight and literary acumen. Boswell, known for his pioneering biography of Johnson, and Osgood, a scholar of 18th-century literature, combine their expertise to illuminate the intellectual and cultural milieu of the time. Their backgrounds allow them to situate Johnson’s works and life within the broader contours of the Enlightenment and its aftermath, offering readers a panoramic view of an era marked by profound transformations in thought and expression. This anthology is an invitation to delve into the intellectual ferment of the 18th century, guided by the insightful curation of Boswell and Osgood. Readers interested in the intersections of biography, literary criticism, and history will find in this collection a fertile ground for exploration. The anthology not only broadens one’s understanding of Samuel Johnson but also enriches the dialogue between his works and those of his contemporaries, making it an invaluable resource for students, scholars, and anyone captivated by the enduring legacy of one of literature’s most illustrious figures.

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James Boswell (1740-1795) was a noted Scottish biographer and diarist, best known for his seminal work, ‘The Life of Samuel Johnson, LL.D.’ (1791). A lawyer by profession, Boswell met Dr. Johnson in 1763, and their ensuing friendship laid the foundation for what would become one of the most celebrated biographies in the English language. Boswell’s meticulous documentation of Dr. Johnson’s conversations and behaviors brought a new depth to the art of biography, combining rigorous historical method with a dynamic narrative style. His portrayal of Johnson was not simply that of a brilliant lexicographer, but of a complex and humane character, full of wit and wisdom. Boswell’s other works include the travel journal ‘An Account of Corsica’ and his ‘Boswell’s London Journal’, which provides a rich account of 18th-century London society. His biographical technique has greatly influenced the genre, and ‘The Life of Samuel Johnson’ remains a primary source for scholars of Johnson and the English literary period. Boswell’s dedication to detail, the vividness of his observations, and his capacity to capture the idiosyncrasies of his subjects have immortalized his contribution to literary scholarship.