1709-1784

Born in Jamaica, Francis Barber was brought to London by his owner in 1750 and became a servant in the household of the renowned Dr. Samuel Johnson. Although Barber left London for a time and served in the British navy during the Seven Years' War, he later returned to Johnson's employ. A fascinating reversal took place in the relationship between the two men as Johnson's health declined and the older man came to rely more and more upon his now educated and devoted companion. When Johnson died he left the bulk of his estate to Barber, a generous (and at the time scandalous) legacy, and a testament to the depth of their friendship. There were thousands of black Britons in the eighteenth century, but few accounts of their lives exist. In uncovering Francis Barber's story, this book not only provides insights into his life and Samuel Johnson's but also opens a window onto London when slaves had yet to win their freedom.

Provides basic information about eighteenth-century English writer and critic Samuel Johnson, with information on issues, concerns, and interests related to Johnson, his works, and people he knew or wrote about.

Pulitzer Prize-winning biography of eighteenth-century English writer and critic Samuel Johnson, discussing his formative years, his early efforts to succeed at writing, and his personal life and beliefs; and examining the work and struggles of his later years.

Relates Samuel Johnson's endeavor in compiling the first dictionary of the English language, a project that took over a decade. Describes how it became regarded as the most important British cultural monument of the eighteenth century, having an influence throughout Europe and the British colonies, including America.