Preface to Shakespeare | Samuel Johnson | Study Guide

Author: Samuel Johnson

 

Year: First published in 1765

 

Type: Preface

 

About the Title:

"Preface to Shakespeare" is an essay by Samuel Johnson, first published in 1765 as the introduction to his edition of William Shakespeare's plays. In this preface, Johnson offers his critical insights and observations on Shakespeare's works, discussing their merits, shortcomings, and overall significance in English literature.

 

Summary:

"Preface to Shakespeare" is a critical essay written by Samuel Johnson, first published in 1765 as the introduction to his edition of William Shakespeare's plays. It's one of the most famous and influential pieces of Shakespearean criticism in English literature.

In the preface, Johnson discusses Shakespeare's literary merits and evaluates his plays in terms of their characters, plots, language, and dramatic techniques. He praises Shakespeare's skill in creating lifelike characters and capturing the complexities of human nature, noting his ability to depict a wide range of emotions and personalities.

Johnson also addresses criticisms of Shakespeare's supposed lack of adherence to classical rules of drama, arguing that Shakespeare's genius transcends these conventions and that his plays should be judged on their own merits rather than by rigid standards of classical form.

Throughout the preface, Johnson emphasizes Shakespeare's universality and timelessness, arguing that his works continue to resonate with audiences because of their profound insight into the human condition. He defends Shakespeare against charges of vulgarity and immorality, arguing that his plays contain valuable lessons and moral truths.

"Preface to Shakespeare" is not only a tribute to Shakespeare's genius but also a manifesto for a new approach to literary criticism, one that values originality, creativity, and emotional truth above all else. It remains a cornerstone of Shakespearean scholarship and a testament to the enduring power and relevance of Shakespeare's works.

Analysis:

Johnson's "Preface to Shakespeare" is notable for its nuanced and insightful analysis of Shakespeare's works. Rather than simply praising Shakespeare as a literary genius, Johnson engages critically with his plays, acknowledging their shortcomings while also celebrating their many virtues. His preface helped to elevate Shakespeare's reputation in the 18th century and played a significant role in shaping subsequent interpretations of his works.

 

Themes:

Literary Criticism - Johnson engages in literary criticism by evaluating Shakespeare's works, identifying their strengths and weaknesses, and assessing their overall significance.

Shakespearean Genius - Johnson celebrates Shakespeare's genius as a playwright and poet, acknowledging his contributions to English literature and drama.

The universality of Shakespeare's Works - Johnson discusses the universal themes and enduring appeal of Shakespeare's plays, suggesting that they continue to resonate with audiences across time and culture.

Legacy and Influence - Johnson reflects on Shakespeare's legacy and influence on subsequent generations of writers and artists, emphasizing his lasting impact on English literature and dramatic tradition.

Symbols and Characters:

"Preface to Shakespeare" does not contain symbols or characters in the traditional sense, as it is a critical essay rather than a work of fiction. However, Johnson does discuss various characters from Shakespeare's plays, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses as examples of Shakespeare's skill as a dramatist.

Overall, "Preface to Shakespeare" is a landmark work of literary criticism that helped to establish Shakespeare as one of the greatest writers in the English language. Johnson's insightful analysis and eloquent prose continue to be studied and admired by scholars and enthusiasts of Shakespearean literature.