“Complicated Virtue": The Politics of Samuel Johnson’s Life of Savage

Document Type

Article - Merrimack Access Only

Publication Title

Eighteenth-Century Life

Publication Date

Fall 2001

Abstract/ Summary

Presents a literary criticism of 'Life of Savage,' by Samuel Johnson, particularly on its concept of complicated virtue. Overview of the life of Richard Savage. Discussion on the idea of virtue in English political discourse during the 1730s and 1740s. Analysis of the concept of civic virtue. Implications for eighteenth century life and beliefs.

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