BOOK BRIEF

Preface to Shakespeare

Samuel Johnson
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Preface to Shakespeare

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2007

Book Brief

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Samuel Johnson

Preface to Shakespeare

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

68

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

England • 18th century

Publication Year

2007

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In the preface to Shakespeare, Samuel Johnson acknowledges Shakespeare's profound understanding of human nature and his ability to depict a wide range of characters. Johnson appreciates Shakespeare's timeless themes and mastery of language while also critiquing inconsistencies and lack of moral instruction in some plays. Johnson emphasizes Shakespeare's enduring impact on literature and drama.

Informative

Contemplative

Challenging

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

3.9

451 ratings

57%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Samuel Johnson's Preface to Shakespeare is lauded for its insightful analysis and appreciation of Shakespeare’s enduring relevance and character complexity. Critics praise Johnson's clarity and depth, though some note his occasional preference for moral judgment over artistic merit. Overall, it's a significant and thoughtful contribution to literary criticism.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Preface to Shakespeare?

A reader who enjoys Samuel Johnson's Preface to Shakespeare likely appreciates literary criticism, classic literature, and historical analysis. This audience may also enjoy works like Harold Bloom's Shakespeare: The Invention of the Human, which delves into Shakespeare's influence and character development.

3.9

451 ratings

57%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

68

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

England • 18th century

Publication Year

2007

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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