Episodi

  • Life of Johnson Volume 1 Part 6

    Life of Johnson Volume 1 Part 6
    Jul 5 2026
    In which Johnson, striving to vindicate the memory of his friend Savage, publishes a lively and philosophical biography that simultaneously reveals his own prejudices and complex character; and amid literary labours and social companions, he embarks upon the monumental task of compiling his famous Dictionary, pursued with admirable perseverance and supported by faithful amanuenses. Alongside these efforts, he engages in critical observations on Shakespeare and forms a congenial literary club, thus balancing profound scholarship with convivial discourse.
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    20 min
  • Life of Johnson Volume 1 Part 5

    Life of Johnson Volume 1 Part 5
    Jul 4 2026
    In which the curious intricacies of Dr. Johnson’s early literary labours and personal afflictions are gently unfolded, revealing the interplay of his abiding friendship, bodily peculiarities, and steadfast industry amid varying fortunes; and in which the enduring spirit of his mind shines forth through his writings, friendships, and resolute conscience. The account bears witness to a man both singular and profoundly human, grappling with hardship, public reputation, and the solace of companionship as the tides of his life and work advance.
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    18 min
  • Life of Johnson Volume 1 Part 4

    Life of Johnson Volume 1 Part 4
    Jul 3 2026
    In which the industrious young Johnson labours as a literary craftsman, contributing political debates and translations, and unexpectedly attains acclaim through his potent satirical poem *London*, which swiftly captivates the literary world and earns the praise of distinguished contemporaries including Pope and General Oglethorpe. His modest ambition and resolute integrity preclude him from seeking favour among the great, leading him to pursue modest appointments and scholarly endeavours amidst the challenges of literary subsistence.
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    22 min
  • Life of Johnson Volume 1 Part 3

    Life of Johnson Volume 1 Part 3
    Jul 2 2026
    In which the young Samuel Johnson, amidst periods of hypochondria and intellectual restlessness, pursues a vast and varied study of literature while attempting to establish himself through teaching, poetry, and early literary works, all the while grappling with poverty and personal affliction. We witness his youthful poetic compositions, academic struggles and triumphs, early friendships, his marriage, and his gradual introduction to London’s literary world, offering a nuanced portrait of a mind both brilliant and burdened in its formative years.
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    49 min
  • Life of Johnson Volume 1 Part 2

    Life of Johnson Volume 1 Part 2
    Jul 1 2026
    In which an earnest and courteous biographer, blessed with intimate acquaintance and assiduous diligence, details his careful and candid method for portraying the complex character of Dr. Samuel Johnson, favouring the vividness of his conversation and private writings over mere chronological recital or panegyric. The narrative then traces Johnson's early years with affectionate attention to his family background, scholastic discipline, precocious intellect, and the formative influences that shaped his remarkable mind and manner.
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    21 min
  • Life of Johnson Volume 1 Part 1

    Life of Johnson Volume 1 Part 1
    Jun 30 2026
    In which the careful editor reflects upon the arduous labour and sincere dedication devoted to faithfully presenting the life of Dr. Johnson, acknowledging both the assistance received and the challenges of preserving the truth amid varied interpretations. The work, tenderly honoured through scholarly zeal and affectionate remembrance, stands as a testament to Johnson’s enduring genius and the vigilant devotion of those who cherish his memory.
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    25 min
  • The Journal of a Tour to the Hebrides with Samuel Johnson section 25

    The Journal of a Tour to the Hebrides with Samuel Johnson section 25
    Jun 29 2026
    In which I recount the concluding moments of our Scottish tour, including a humorous and affectionate episode reflecting on a disappointed host, and muse on Dr Johnson’s appreciation of the journey as one of the most pleasant times of his life. Our travels end with a return to England, and a quiet pride in having stirred my illustrious friend to undertake an adventure that yielded such a celebrated work.
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    35 min
  • The Journal of a Tour to the Hebrides with Samuel Johnson section 24

    The Journal of a Tour to the Hebrides with Samuel Johnson section 24
    Jun 28 2026
    In which a day spent at Lord Hailes's provokes reflections on the varied knowledge of military officers, and Dr Johnson's keen observations reveal his imperturbable wit and candid judgments on subjects from legal pleading to generosity. Sprinkled with characteristic anecdotes, the discourse artfully balances gravely spoken truths with a lightness of spirit, illuminating the personalities and thoughts encountered on this part of the journey.
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    26 min