Society of Archbishop Justus
Samuel Johnson, Writer of an Age
James E. Kiefer's extensive biography features anecdotes from Samuel Johnson's childhood plus discussion of his struggles with disability and the metamorphosis of his religious and philosophical beliefs. This site includes excerpts from...
Rutgers University
Rutgers University: Johnson on the History of the Language
Critical analysis of Johnson's use of literary sources in his dictionary, and his contribution to the development of modern English. Includes extensive notes and bibliography.
Rutgers University
Rutgers University: Use, Elegance, and National Identity in Johnson's Dictionary
An analytical discussion of Johnson's use of literary technique in his dictionary. It includes notes and bibliography.
Rutgers University
Rutgers University: The Plan of an English Dictionary (1747) by Samuel Johnson
Read actual text from Dr. Johnson's, The Plan of an English Dictionary (1747), as he explains his motivations for undertaking the task of writing the English Dictionary. Johnson also expounds upon the process and outcome.
Rutgers University
Rutgers University: The Dictionary of the English Language
Brief introductory essay on the history of Samuel Johnson's dictionary. Includes information on the time frame of the work and the significance of the dictionary in the development of modern versions. Criticism is cited.
Other
Samuel Johnson Sound Bite Page: Time Line
Supplemental to general biographies. Features some information about Johnson's struggles with poverty and depression. Also includes major works.
Other
Samuel Johnson Page: Brief Biography
A biographical sketch of Johnson, featuring information about his difficult birth and childhood illnesses, his failed teaching career, and some details of his literary accomplishments.
Other
Dictionary of the English Language/image
See a Close-up image of an original page from Johnson's dictionary. It shows the definition and a usage example for the word "puke."
Authors Calendar
Author's Calendar: Samuel Johnson
An account of the life and times of Samuel Johnson. Includes a list of selected works by Samuel Johnson.