A Poetical Review of the Literary and Moral Character of the late Samuel Johnson (1786)

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"A Poetical Review of the Literary and Moral Character of the late Samuel Johnson" by John Courtenay is a biographical poem published in the late 18th century. Written shortly after the death of the famed English writer Samuel Johnson in 1784, this work reflects the significant public interest in Johnson's literary and moral character, capturing both praise and criticism. The poem is categorized as a literary criticism, exploring Johnson's contributions to literature and humanity while highlighting both the virtues and vices that marked his life. The poem is structured in three hundred and four lines, beginning with a critical lens on Johnson’s character and eventually transitioning into a tribute that acknowledges his literary achievements. Courtenay navigates through Johnson's life, referencing his works, such as the Dictionary and the Rambler, while also cataloging his personal flaws and the controversies surrounding him. The author employs wit and satire to portray Johnson as a complex character, encapsulating the duality of his nature—both a revered literary figure and a man beset with personal struggles. Courtenay's verses ultimately serve as a balanced homage, revealing how Johnson's frailties coexisted with his brilliance, making for a deeply human portrait of one of Britain's most significant literary figures.