Title |
Ode by Dr. Samuel Johnson to Mrs. Thrale, upon their supposed approaching nuptials |
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Author |
Boswell, James |
Imprint | London: Printed for R. Faulder, New-Bond-Street |
Language | English |
Date of publication |
1784 |
Notes |
The folded sheets of a suggestive parody by Boswell mocking Dr Johnson's alleged designs on the wealthy widow Hester Thrale (1741-1821). Johnson was a regular guest of the Thrales and after the death of her husband she was able to live independently on the proceeds of the sale of his brewery. However, Johnson and Mrs Thrale's friendship was entirely platonic. The use of quotes from Mrs Thrale's Letters, published in 1788, demonstrate that the pamphlet was not printed in 1784 as stated on the title page. This copy likely comes from the "quantity of loose sheets" described by Pottle, found by a Glasgow bookseller at Auchinleck. |
Shelfmark | RB.m.786 |
Reference sources |
Bookseller's catalogue |
Acquisition date | 26 April 2019 |