The Cambridge History of English Literature: Age Johnson

"The Cambridge History of English Literature: The Age of Johnson" provides an authoritative and comprehensive survey of one of the most vibrant eras in the history of British letters. This tenth volume of the renowned series focuses on the mid-to-late eighteenth century, a period defined by the formidable intellectual presence of Samuel Johnson and the burgeoning diversity of the English literary landscape.The work meticulously examines the evolution of various genres, including the rise of the modern novel, the refinement of the periodical essay, and the development of rigorous literary criticism. Beyond the monumental contributions of Johnson himself, the volume explores the philosophical depth of thinkers like David Hume and Adam Smith, the poetic shifts seen in the works of Thomas Gray, and the theatrical innovations of the Georgian stage. By analyzing the intersection of politics, history, and art, the text captures the transition from Neoclassical discipline to the nascent sensibilities of the Romantic movement. This volume serves as an indispensable resource for scholars and enthusiasts seeking a deep understanding of the intellectual rigor and stylistic mastery that characterized eighteenth-century England.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.