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Cover of The Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. Volume 11.: Parlimentary Debates II.

The Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. Volume 11.: Parlimentary Debates II.

Written by Samuel Johnson

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Great Britain. Parliament. House of Commons

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About this book

"The Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. Volume 11" by Samuel Johnson is a collection of political debates and discussions likely compiled during the early 19th century. This volume contains various parliamentary debates addressing key issues of the time, such as public affairs, war, and the responsibilities of government officials, reflecting the political landscape and societal concerns of the era in which they were written. The opening of the work introduces a debate that took place in the House of Commons on December 8, 1741, regarding a motion to address the king. The discourse is centered on the significance of maintaining respect and decorum toward the monarchy while also advocating for the common people's interests. Several prominent speakers, including Mr. Herbert and Mr. Trevor, contribute to the discussion, balancing their allegiance to the crown with a desire to assert the commons' rightful role in governance. They debate the necessity of providing sound advice to the king and ensuring that the nation's resources are properly managed, outlining the tension between governmental authority and public accountability inherent in parliamentary discussions of the time.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. Volume 11.: Parlimentary Debates II., written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 15 hours
  • advanced
  • formal
  • political
  • rhetorical

Samuel Johnson's Volume 11, 'Parliamentary Debates II,' compiles his reports of parliamentary proceedings, primarily from the 1740s, originally published in *The Gentleman's Magazine*. While presented as factual accounts, these debates were largely Johnson's own rhetorical compositions, based on scant notes and his profound understanding of political issues and human nature. This volume offers a unique window into 18th-century British politics, Johnson's early journalistic methods, and his formidable skill in crafting persuasive oratory. It reveals the intellectual and rhetorical landscape of a pivotal era, showcasing Johnson's ability to imbue dry political discourse with dramatic tension and eloquent argumentation, shaping public perception of parliamentary affairs.

“It is by the wisdom of Parliament that the constitution has been preserved.”

Key themes

Rhetoric and Persuasion
The entire volume is a masterclass in 18th-century rhetoric. Johnson meticulously crafts speeches for various figures, demonstrating how arguments are constructed, fallacies are exposed, and public opinion is swayed through eloquent language, logical appeals (logos), emotional appeals (pathos), and appeals to authority or character (ethos). It highlights the power of language in shaping political discourse.
Political Power and Governance
The debates constantly revolve around the exercise of political power: the role of the Prime Minister, the authority of Parliament, the prerogatives of the Crown, and the implications of policy decisions on national and international affairs. It explores the mechanisms of government and the constant struggle for influence.
Truth and Representation in Media
Given Johnson's methodology of inventing speeches, this volume inherently raises questions about the nature of truth in reporting and the responsibility of journalists. It explores how 'facts' and 'opinions' are presented and how narratives are constructed to serve particular purposes, even if those purposes are to educate and entertain.

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Discuss the ethical implications of Johnson's 'reporting' methods in the context of 18th-century journalism versus modern standards.

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