Here's a breakdown of his ideas:
Appeal to the Common Reader:
* Yes, but with caveats: Johnson recognized the value of literature for all, not just the elite. He believed in the power of literature to educate and uplift the common reader. His work, such as "Rasselas," aimed to be accessible and engaging for a wide audience.
* Emphasis on moral instruction: He saw literature as a vehicle for moral education and believed it should inspire virtue and discourage vice.
* Balance with literary merit: While emphasizing accessibility, Johnson did not endorse pandering to the lowest common denominator. He believed in maintaining high standards of writing and thought, even when catering to a broader audience.
Teaching and Education:
* Central to literature: Johnson believed literature should instruct as well as entertain. He saw it as a powerful tool for shaping minds and influencing behavior.
* Emphasis on reason and virtue: His works often explored moral dilemmas and emphasized the importance of reason and virtue in navigating life's challenges.
* Promotion of classical learning: He advocated for the study of classical literature, believing it provided a strong foundation for intellectual and moral development.
In summary, while Samuel Johnson valued the importance of literature for the common reader and emphasized its role in moral instruction, he also believed in maintaining high standards of literary quality and intellectual engagement.
His works and critical writings reflect a nuanced approach to literature, aiming to both educate and entertain, while adhering to the principles of classical learning and literary excellence.