Product Description

The text of this edition is that of Boswell's 1791 first edition, and it remains, by common consent, the greatest biography in the English language. Johnson's centrality in 18th century letters is established not only by Boswell's record of life and conversation, but also by the success of the work in placing him in a literary and cultural context.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #583304 in Books
• Published on: 1999-05-20
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 1024 pages

Customer Reviews

Better than 'Blackadder III' !
Onee of the funniest books I have read in a long time, and ironically it really shouldn't be--after all, an 18th century bio should be dry and dull. The book is anecdotal, basically comprising bits of dialogue and images from Johnson's life, but is rendered in such a droll and vivid fashion that it held me to the last. Johnson and Boswell form an almost Laurel-and-Hardy like team of call and response humor, with Johnson's blustering wit always triumphing. Boswell, an intemperate Scot of aristocratic birth, both falls prey to the Tory, common-born, common-sense Johnson's wit and intellect and renders then in a fashion that makes you wish you could have met him. Johnson's directness in his opinions is refreshing in today's questioning post-modern climate, a bracing and entertaining read full of rudeness and delight.

The best biography ever written, and should be read in full
This is the best biography ever written; so good, in fact, that you should get the unabridged version. The most fascinating thing about Johnson is not his one-off witticisms or words of wisdom, but his character as it slowly unfolds in Boswell's writing, and the fuller the picture you get, the better.

My favorite biography
I enjoyed reading this biography very much, finding Boswell an amazingly adroit reporter and his subject fascinating and wise. Johnson was full of shrewdness and good sense, along with amusing biases and unusual mannerisms, just the sort of person to ask to liven up a dinner. The book is both humorous and moving, written in a lively style, and good for repeated readings through the years.