A Dictionary of the English Language: an Anthology - Classic Text | Alexandria
A Dictionary of the English Language: An Anthology by Samuel Johnson, more than a mere collection of words, represents a monumental undertaking that sought to codify and standardize the sprawling English language in the mid-18th century. Often simply referred to as "Johnson's Dictionary," it is neither merely a list nor an objective reflection but instead a subjective exploration of language through the lens of one brilliant, opinionated mind. Many imagine it was the first dictionary, ignoring centuries of lexicographical efforts preceding it, but Johnson's creation stood apart due to its inclusion of illustrative quotations, his personal definitions, and his witty asides.
Its genesis can be traced back to 1746, when a consortium of London booksellers commissioned Johnson to create a comprehensive English dictionary. The project stemmed from a growing sense that the English language lacked the authority and standardization found in other European languages. The preceding era was marked by rapid social and intellectual change, as the Enlightenment challenged traditional notions of authority. This era of shifting perspectives provided fertile ground for Johnson's work, a period where language itself was viewed as a battleground.
Published in 1755, the Dictionary immediately exerted a profound influence on English literature and lexicography. Unlike earlier dictionaries, which primarily focused on etymology or simple definition, Johnson's work included carefully selected quotations from leading literary figures, granting a sense of authority and usage to each word. His definitions, too, were often infused with his own moral and political beliefs. Over the years, Johnson's Dictionary became a touchstone for writers, scholars, and anyone seeking to understand the nuances of the English language. Anecdotes abound, with tales of writers meticulously consulting its pages and arguing over Johnson's idiosyncratic interpretations. The very act of consulting it became a cultural practice, a ritual of intellectual engagement.
The legacy of A Dictionary of the English Language continues to resonate today, shaping our understanding of language and its role in shaping our thoughts and perceptions. Though other dictionaries have superseded it in terms of comprehensiveness, Johnson's work remains a powerful reminder of the intimate connection between language, culture, and individual expression. The enduring mystique of Johnson's Dictionary hinges not just on its historical importance, but on its humanity. How truly objective can any attempt to define the world, word by word, ever be?