Poetical Works of Johnson, Parnell, Gray, and Smollett (eBook)

In the 'Poetical Works of Johnson, Parnell, Gray, and Smollett', we find an anthology that binds together the lyricism and didactic fervor of four noteworthy 18th-century British poets. The volume, with its scholarly apparatus of memoirs, critical dissertations, and elucidatory notes, extends beyond the mere presentation of verse to offer a rigorous examination of the literary and socio-cultural contexts that shaped the poets' works. It underscores the variegated textures of the Augustan literary style, tracing subtle shifts from the neoclassical penchant for order to the emerging sensibilities that would herald Romanticism. Such a compilation not only showcases the artistic merit of each poet but also invites a thoughtful comparison of their distinct poetic voices.
Samuel Johnson, one of the luminaries included, was not just a creator of verse but a formidable literary critic and lexicographer whose insights shaped the literary discourse of his time. His engagement with the works of fellow poets Parnell, Gray, and Smollett reflects his discerning eye for literary excellence and his recognition of the cultural significance of their contributions. Johnson's ambitious intellectual pursuits provide a robust framework for the selection and analysis of the pieces included, offering a rich tapestry that weaves together the moral, aesthetic, and intellectual preoccupations of an era that was on the cusp of great philosophical and artistic upheavals.
This compilation emerges as an invaluable resource for both the seasoned scholar and the literary enthusiast. Readers interested in the evolution of English poetry will find in these pages a window into the minds of four masters who captured the ethos of their time in metered brilliance. The accompanying memoirs and critical essays not only bolster the appreciation of the poems themselves but also serve to educate the reader in the practice of critical reflection, ensuring that the 'Poetical Works of Johnson, Parnell, Gray, and Smollett' is as instructional as it is enriching.