Ships from the UK. Used book that is in clean, average condition without any missing pages. Seller Inventory # 40478332-20
Synopsis: By 1700, France and Italy already had dictionaries of their own, and it became a matter of national pride that England should rival them. Dr Johnson rose to the challenge, turning over the garret of his London home to the creation of his Dictionary. He imagined it would take three years. Eight years later it was finally published, full of idiosyncrasies, but complete nevertheless. It would become the most important British cultural monument of the eighteenth century. This is the story of Johnson's attempt to define each and every word. In wonderfully engaging chapters, Hitchings describes Johnson's adventure -- his ambition and vision, his moments of despair, the mistakes he made along the way and his ultimate triumph.
About the Author: Henry Hitchings was born in 1974. Educated at the universities of Oxford and London, he wrote his doctoral thesis on Samuel Johnson. He has contributed to many newspapers and magazines.
Title: Dr Johnson's Dictionary
Publisher: Murray, John N.
Publication Date: 2005
Binding: Hardcover
Condition: Good