# Samuel Johnson — Table-Talk character guide

> Samuel Johnson in Table-Talk by William Hazlitt.

**Role:** minor

**Also known as:** Dr. Johnson, Johnson

**First appearance:** 0003-volume-i-on-genius-and-common-sense

## Who they are

Lexicographer and critic, frequently referenced in literary discussions.

## In the story

### [On Genius and Common Sense](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/table_talk_se/chapters/volume-i-on-genius-and-common-sense)

Contrasted with Goldsmith: Johnson was superior in argument but inferior in intuitive tact.

### [On Criticism](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/table_talk_se/chapters/volume-ii-on-criticism)

Referenced as 'Justice Woodcock' in a simile about critics' morbid pretensions.

### [On Familiar Style](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/table_talk_se/chapters/volume-ii-on-familiar-style)

Criticized for his style which uses 'tall, opaque words' and lacks discrimination.

### [On the Fear of Death](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/table_talk_se/chapters/volume-ii-on-the-fear-of-death)

Cited as an example of a sedentary, studious man who was especially apprehensive about death.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/table_talk_se/characters/samuel_johnson
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/table_talk_se
- All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/table_talk_se/characters