Samuel Johnson

Date of Birth: September 18, 1709

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: December 13, 1784

Biography

Samuel Johnson, often referred to as Dr. Johnson, was an English writer who made lasting contributions to English literature as a poet, essayist, moralist, literary critic, biographer, editor, and lexicographer. Born on September 18, 1709, in Lichfield, Staffordshire, Johnson is most famously known for his dictionary, “A Dictionary of the English Language,” published in 1755. This monumental work, which took him nine years to complete, was the preeminent English dictionary until the publication of the Oxford English Dictionary over a century later. Johnson’s other notable works include his collection of essays, “The Rambler,” and his critical biographies, “Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets.” His life was meticulously documented by his friend and biographer James Boswell in “The Life of Samuel Johnson,” often hailed as one of the greatest biographies ever written. A towering literary figure of his time, Johnson’s wit and wisdom were sought after in London’s intellectual circles. Despite facing numerous personal challenges, including struggles with mental and physical health, he left an indelible mark on English literature and language.

5 Interesting Facts about Samuel Johnson

1. Samuel Johnson was afflicted by scrofula, a form of tuberculosis, from a young age, which left him with lifelong physical scars and health issues.

2. He suffered from Tourette syndrome, which manifested in physical tics and compulsive behaviors.

3. Johnson’s financial struggles were alleviated when he received a pension from King George III in 1762, recognizing his contributions to literature.

4. His dictionary included not just definitions but also quotes from literature to illustrate the meanings of words, an innovative approach at the time.

5. Johnson was known for his deep friendships, including with painter Joshua Reynolds and writer Oliver Goldsmith, forming the core of the literary club known as “The Club.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Samuel Johnson

1. “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.”

2. “Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel.”

3. “The true measure of a man is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good.”

4. “Curiosity is, in great and generous minds, the first passion and the last.”

5. “He who makes a beast of himself gets rid of the pain of being a man.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the height of his career, Samuel Johnson’s net worth was modest by today’s standards, but receiving a pension of £300 per year from King George III provided him with financial stability and was a significant sum at the time.

Children

Samuel Johnson did not have any children. He was married to Elizabeth Porter, a widow 20 years his senior, but the union did not produce any offspring.