The Vanity of Human Wishes (1749) and Two Rambler papers (1750)

In «The Vanity of Human Wishes,» Samuel Johnson presents a profound exploration of ambition, desire, and the inherent futility of human aspirations. With masterful use of an intricate verse structure and a wealth of classical allusion, Johnson critiques the chaotic pursuit of worldly success and the ephemeral satisfaction it brings. The poem draws heavily on the moral, philosophical, and aesthetic influences of the Augustan age, offering a reflective commentary that resonates with the disillusionment of the human condition. The two Rambler papers, also included, delve into themes of virtue, vice, and the... Weiter