Samuel Johnson, an eminent 18th-century literary critic, provided a significant contribution to the understanding and appreciation of William Shakespeare's works through his "Preface to Shakespeare." Johnson's evaluation of Shakespeare reflects his deep admiration for the Bard's genius while also incorporating his own critical perspectives on the playwright's strengths and shortcomings.
One of Johnson's key points in the "Preface to Shakespeare" is his emphasis on Shakespeare's universality. Johnson praises Shakespeare's ability to capture the essence of human nature in his characters, making them relatable across time and culture. Johnson sees Shakespeare as a keen observer of human behavior, capable of portraying a wide range of characters with depth and authenticity. According to Johnson, Shakespeare's characters are not limited to specific social or cultural contexts; instead, they embody universal qualities that resonate with audiences of all backgrounds.
Furthermore, Johnson lauds Shakespeare's skill in language and expression. He commends the playwright's mastery of words, noting the richness and flexibility of Shakespeare's language. Johnson recognizes the diversity of Shakespeare's vocabulary, the intricacy of his metaphors, and the beauty of his verse. In Johnson's view, Shakespeare's linguistic prowess contributes significantly to the enduring appeal of his works, making them timeless and accessible to readers and audiences alike.
However, Johnson is not blind to what he perceives as Shakespeare's flaws. Despite his overall admiration, Johnson criticizes certain aspects of Shakespeare's plays. One notable criticism is directed at Shakespeare's disregard for the unities of time and place, a classical dramatic principle. Johnson, a proponent of classical rules in drama, laments Shakespeare's frequent violation of these principles, arguing that they disrupt the coherence and believability of the narrative. This criticism reflects Johnson's commitment to classical aesthetics and his reservations about deviations from established literary norms.
Moreover, Johnson comments on Shakespeare's occasional lapses in poetic decorum. While praising Shakespeare's linguistic prowess, Johnson acknowledges instances where the Bard's language might seem excessive or bordering on bombastic. Johnson's criticism in this regard reveals his preference for a more restrained and controlled use of language, aligning with the neoclassical ideals of his time.
In conclusion, Samuel Johnson's "Preface to Shakespeare" provides a nuanced evaluation of the Bard's works. Johnson's admiration for Shakespeare's universal themes, rich language, and profound understanding of human nature is evident throughout the preface. At the same time, his critiques of Shakespeare's departure from classical principles and occasional lapses in poetic decorum reflect the tensions between the neoclassical ideals of the 18th century and the unrivaled genius of Shakespeare. Johnson's preface remains a valuable and influential piece of Shakespearean criticism, offering insights into both the strengths and weaknesses of one of the greatest playwrights in literary history.