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

"A Poetical Review of the Literary and Moral Character of the late Samuel Johnson" by John Courtenay is a poem that serves as literary criticism and a tribute to Samuel Johnson shortly after his death. The poem examines Johnson's literary and moral character, exploring not only his immense contributions to literature through works like his Dictionary, but also acknowledging his personal flaws and controversies. Courtenay crafts a balanced portrayal of Johnson, showcasing both the strengths and struggles, and uses wit and satire to present Johnson as a complex, deeply human figure. The poem transitions from a more critical perspective to an admiring one, ultimately acting as an homage to the literary giant and revealing a man whose brilliance was intertwined with his frailties.