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How Did Boswell Differentiate Between The Writing Of Addison And Johnson

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James Boswell uses comparisons, praising diction and syntax changes to differentiate between the writing of Addison and Johnson. Boswell argues that Johnson is a far superior writer compared to Addison in his biography on Johnson, The Life of Samuel Johnson. Boswell compares the writing of Addison to Johnson as nerveless and feeble because it lacks the strength and energy of Johnson’s. Boswell praises Johnson’s writing by stating that it is superior to Addison’s. Boswell states that readers ‘fancy’ the writings of Addison, but it is just a facade because he is not actually wise. In contrast, Johnson is applauded for his ability to ‘dictate’ to his readers who listen to him with ‘awe and admiration’. The ability of Johnson to present information

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