1.

**Introduction**

Samuel Johnson's "The Preface to Shakespeare" is a monumental work in literary criticism,

offering a robust defense and critical analysis of Shakespeare's plays. Johnson's preface
serves as an introduction to his edition of Shakespeare's collected works, published in
1765.

**Shakespeare's Timeless Nature**

Johnson attributes Shakespeare's enduring appeal to his accurate portrayal of human

nature, action, and speech. He argues that Shakespeare's works serve as a mirror to
mankind, reflecting the universal truths of the human experience¹.

**Critique of the Unities**

Johnson dismisses the classical unities of time, place, and action as irrelevant to
Shakespeare's success. He contends that adherence to these unities is less important
than the playwright's ability to capture the essence of life².

**Shakespeare's Merits**

According to Johnson, Shakespeare's genius lies in his vivid characters, natural dialogue,
and the representation of universal themes. His works have transcended the limitations of
his era, achieving a timeless quality that continues to resonate with audiences¹.

**Acknowledging Shakespeare's Flaws**

While praising Shakespeare, Johnson does not ignore his flaws. He criticizes Shakespeare
for his occasional lack of moral purpose and for prioritizing entertainment over
didacticism. However, Johnson views these as minor compared to Shakespeare's overall
contributions¹.

**Johnson's Aesthetic Theory**

Johnson's preface lays out a broader aesthetic theory, suggesting that the true test of
literary greatness is the ability to withstand the scrutiny of time. He believes that works of
art cannot be judged absolutely but should be evaluated based on their enduring appeal
and relevance².

**Conclusion**

"The Preface to Shakespeare" is not only a defense of Shakespeare's works but also a
significant statement on literature and criticism. Johnson's insights into Shakespeare's
universality and the nature of artistic evaluation continue to influence literary discourse
today.

2. **Introduction**

Samuel Johnson's "The Preface to Shakespeare" stands as a seminal work in the realm of
literary criticism. Published in 1765, it serves as the introduction to Johnson's edited
collection of Shakespeare's plays and is a critical examination of the enduring nature of
Shakespeare's work.

**Shakespeare's Universal Appeal**

Johnson praises Shakespeare for his portrayal of human nature, action, and speech, which
he believes accurately reflects the human condition. He argues that Shakespeare's
characters are the "genuine progeny of common humanity," speaking the language of
everyday life and expressing emotions that resonate universally¹.

**Rejection of Classical Unities**

Johnson challenges the classical unities of time, place, and action, suggesting that
Shakespeare's success does not stem from adherence to these rules. Instead, he posits
that the essence of life captured in Shakespeare's plays is of greater importance¹.

**Shakespeare's Strengths**
The preface highlights Shakespeare's strengths, including his vivid characters and natural
dialogue. Johnson emphasizes that Shakespeare's themes are not confined to his own era
but continue to be relevant, granting his works a timeless quality¹.

**Shakespeare's Flaws**

Johnson does not shy away from discussing Shakespeare's flaws. He points out
Shakespeare's occasional disregard for moral purpose and his tendency to prioritize
entertainment over didacticism. Nonetheless, Johnson regards these shortcomings as
minor compared to Shakespeare's overall achievements¹.

**Johnson's Aesthetic Principles**

Johnson's preface outlines his aesthetic theory, which suggests that longevity is the true
test of literary greatness. He believes that the value of art is determined by its ability to
remain relevant and appealing over time¹.

**Conclusion**

"The Preface to Shakespeare" is a defense of Shakespeare's work and a significant

statement on literature and criticism. Johnson's insights into Shakespeare's universality
and the nature of artistic evaluation have had a lasting impact on literary discourse.

3. *Title: Unveiling Shakespeare's Preface: A Journey into the Bard's Mind**

**Introduction:**

Welcome, esteemed audience, to an exploration of one of literature's most intriguing

prefaces - the Preface to Shakespeare. Penned by the eminent literary critic Samuel
Johnson, this preface serves not only as an introduction to Shakespeare's works but also as
a window into Johnson's own profound understanding and interpretation of the Bard's
genius.

**1. Contextualizing the Preface:**

In 1765, Samuel Johnson undertook the monumental task of editing and annotating
Shakespeare's plays. His Preface, therefore, emerges from a scholarly endeavor to
elucidate the intricacies of Shakespearean drama and its enduring relevance. Johnson's
stature as a literary critic lends weight to his observations, making his Preface a
cornerstone in Shakespearean scholarship.

**2. Appreciating Shakespeare's Universality:**

Johnson's Preface begins with a sweeping assertion of Shakespeare's universality,

asserting that "his characters are universally the representatives of human nature." This
declaration underscores Shakespeare's ability to capture the essence of humanity across
time and space. Johnson substantiates this claim by citing examples from Shakespeare's
plays, such as the jealousy of Othello and the ambition of Macbeth, which resonate with
audiences of all ages.

Textual Reference: "Shakespeare approximates the remote, and familiarizes the wonderful;
the event which he represents will not happen, but if it were possible, its effects would
probably follow: and actions, which he relates, would probably be performed, but that they
are interrupted or hindered by some extrinsic accidents."

**3. Defending Shakespearean Irregularities:**

Johnson addresses the criticism leveled against Shakespeare for his perceived
irregularities in language, plot, and characterization. He contends that these apparent
flaws are, in fact, deliberate artistic choices that contribute to Shakespeare's unique style
and authenticity. Rather than conforming to classical norms, Shakespeare transcends
them, creating a dramatic world that mirrors the complexity of human experience.

Textual Reference: "His dramas are the mirror of life; they exhibit a perpetual succession of
reciprocal interests, and diversified characters, of actions and passions, local incidents
and general occurrences, which pass before us, like the scenery of a theatre."

**4. Exploring Shakespeare's Characterization:**

Central to Johnson's analysis is his exploration of Shakespeare's characterization. He
emphasizes Shakespeare's skill in crafting multifaceted characters who possess depth,
nuance, and psychological complexity. Whether it be the tragic heroism of Hamlet or the
comic antics of Falstaff, Shakespeare's characters embody the full spectrum of human
emotions and motivations.

Textual Reference: "His persons act and speak by the influence of those general passions
and principles by which all minds are agitated, and the whole system of life is continued in
motion."

**5. Reflecting on Shakespeare's Language:**

Johnson acknowledges the richness and flexibility of Shakespeare's language, which

encompasses a wide range of styles, from the sublime to the mundane. He celebrates
Shakespeare's mastery of verse and prose, wordplay, and rhetoric, highlighting the Bard's
ability to evoke profound sentiments and provoke intellectual engagement.

Textual Reference: "His style is indeed not easily understood, because he conveys his
thoughts in the most striking and forcible manner; but his difficulties ... are always such as
arise naturally from the subject."

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, Samuel Johnson's Preface to Shakespeare stands as a testament to the

enduring legacy of the Bard and the profound insights of one of history's greatest literary
critics. Through Johnson's discerning analysis, we gain a deeper appreciation for
Shakespeare's artistry and the timeless relevance of his works. As we delve into the
Preface, we embark on a journey into the heart of Shakespearean drama, where the
complexities of human nature are laid bare for all to behold.

Thank you for your attention. Let us now embark on a journey through the labyrinthine
corridors of Shakespeare's imagination, guided by the astute wisdom of Samuel Johnson.
4. ## Introduction to "The Preface to Shakespeare"

"The Preface to Shakespeare" is a critical essay written by Samuel Johnson in 1765 as an

introduction to his edition of William Shakespeare's plays. Johnson's preface is a
significant piece of literary criticism that offers valuable insights into Shakespeare's works,
his genius, and the principles of dramatic art. This presentation will delve into the key
themes, ideas, and arguments presented in Johnson's preface, supported by textual
references to elucidate his views.

## Samuel Johnson's View on Shakespeare's Genius

Samuel Johnson begins his preface by acknowledging Shakespeare's unparalleled genius,

stating, "The poet of whose works I have undertaken the revision may now begin to assume
the dignity of an ancient, and claim the privilege of established fame and prescriptive
veneration." Johnson emphasizes Shakespeare's enduring popularity and the universal
acclaim his works have received over time.

Johnson praises Shakespeare's ability to capture the essence of human nature, remarking,
"His characters are not modified by the customs of particular places, unpracticed by the
rest of the world; by the peculiarities of studies or professions, which can operate but upon
small numbers; or by the accidents of transient fashions or temporary opinions." Johnson
highlights Shakespeare's skill in creating characters that resonate with audiences across
cultures and time periods.

## Shakespeare's Mastery of Language and Versatility

In his preface, Johnson also discusses Shakespeare's mastery of language and his
versatility in using different forms of expression. Johnson notes, "His diction is more his
own, and he has fewer sparkling lines, but more passages of equal excellence." Johnson
admires Shakespeare's ability to craft language that is uniquely his own, devoid of artificial
embellishments but rich in depth and meaning.

Johnson further praises Shakespeare's versatility in handling various genres, from tragedy
to comedy, stating, "His tragedy seems to be skill, his comedy to be instinct." Johnson
appreciates Shakespeare's natural talent in creating both tragic and comedic works,
showcasing his ability to evoke a range of emotions and themes with equal proficiency.

## Shakespeare's Realism and Moral Lessons

One of the key aspects of Johnson's preface is his discussion of Shakespeare's realism and
the moral lessons embedded in his works. Johnson argues, "Shakespeare always makes
nature predominate over accident, and has left the world to be governed by itself." Johnson
highlights Shakespeare's focus on portraying human nature in its raw form, free from
contrived plots or artificial devices.

Johnson also emphasizes the moral lessons that can be gleaned from Shakespeare's plays,
stating, "His sentiments are not only in general the genuine dictates of common sense, but
sometimes the immediate suggestions of present passion." Johnson lauds Shakespeare for
presenting moral truths that resonate with audiences on a personal and emotional level,
transcending mere intellectual discourse.

## Conclusion

In conclusion, Samuel Johnson's "The Preface to Shakespeare" stands as a timeless piece

of literary criticism that celebrates the genius of William Shakespeare and offers profound
insights into his works. Johnson's preface serves as a testament to Shakespeare's enduring
legacy and continues to influence how we perceive and appreciate the Bard's contributions
to literature. Through his eloquent prose and insightful analysis, Johnson elevates
Shakespeare to the status of a literary giant whose works will continue to inspire and
captivate audiences for generations to come.
5.

• 18th-century ideas about literature

• Emphasis on classical rules and decorum
• Rise of literary criticism

Speaker Notes In the 18th century, literary criticism was dominated by neoclassical
ideas. These ideas emphasized order, reason, and following the rules established by
classical writers like Aristotle. Shakespeare, on the other hand, was often seen as a
messy and undisciplined writer who violated these rules. Johnson’s Preface was a
challenge to these neoclassical ideas.

Johnson’s Defense of Shakespeare

• Universality of Shakespeare’s characters

• Naturalness of Shakespeare’s dialogue
• Importance of imagination and pleasure

Speaker Notes Johnson defends Shakespeare against the charge of violating the
classical rules. He argues that Shakespeare’s plays are great because they are true to
human nature. Shakespeare’s characters are not simply types; they are complex and
believable individuals. His dialogue is natural and realistic, and his plays provide both
pleasure and instruction.

• Shakespeare’s use of language

• Invention of new words and phrases
• Mixing of comic and tragic elements

Speaker Notes Johnson also praises Shakespeare’s use of language. He admires

Shakespeare’s ability to invent new words and phrases, and he celebrates his
willingness to mix comic and tragic elements within a single play. Johnson argues that
this mixture of moods is more reflective of real life.

• Johnson’s lasting impact on Shakespearean criticism

• The Preface as a foundation for modern appreciation of Shakespeare

Speaker Notes Johnson’s Preface had a lasting impact on Shakespearean criticism. It

helped to establish Shakespeare’s reputation as a great writer and to lay the foundation
for modern appreciation of his work. Johnson’s defense of Shakespeare’s imagination
and his emphasis on the emotional power of his plays continue to be relevant today