James Boswell

James Boswell (1740-1795) was a Scottish biographer and diarist, best known for his biography of his friend and contemporary, the English writer Samuel Johnson. 'The Life of Samuel Johnson' is considered a masterpiece and one of the greatest biographies ever written, providing a detailed account of Johnson's life and times. Boswell's work is celebrated for its vivid portrayal of a central figure in 18th-century English literature and for its rich depiction of the social and cultural life of the period.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Life of Samuel Johnson

    "The Life of Samuel Johnson" is a comprehensive biography that chronicles the life of one of the most prominent English literary figures of the 18th century. The book provides an in-depth account of Samuel Johnson's life, his literary works, and his significant contribution to English literature. It also offers a detailed portrait of his personality, his relationships, his struggles with depression and illness, and his views on a variety of subjects. The book is as much a biography of Johnson as it is a portrayal of 18th-century England.

  2. 2. Boswell's London Journal, 1762-1763

    This book is a journal-style account of a young Scottish man's experiences in 18th-century London. It provides a vivid and detailed account of the social, political, and cultural landscape of the time. The author, a law student, records his interactions with notable figures of the day, his romantic pursuits, his struggles with depression, and his efforts to establish himself in London society. His observations offer unique insights into the life and times of 18th-century London.

  3. 3. The Journals Of James Boswell

    The book is a detailed and candid collection of personal diaries, offering an intimate glimpse into the life and times of the 18th-century Scottish writer. It chronicles his experiences, observations, and reflections, ranging from his ambitious legal career and lively social life to his travels and interactions with notable figures of his era. Renowned for its rich portrayal of the author's personality and the social mores of the period, the journals provide a valuable historical account, as well as a deep exploration of the author's inner world, his aspirations, insecurities, and intellectual pursuits.