Clubbable Man: Essays on Eighteenth-Century Literature and Culture

This collection of essays honors Greg Clingham's achievements, professional generosity, and sociability, exploring textual and social group formations in the eighteenth century. Contributors examine the "mirrored minds" of Johnson and Shakespeare, the intersections of the general and particular, physical rambling, and intertextual strands, and other topics significant to the field. Tributes from Clinghams former students and colleagues are also included.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 17 June 2022
Publisher: Rutgers University Press

Samuel Johnson, renowned for his sharp wit and insightful observations, had a unique way of describing his future biographer, the unsociable magistrate Sir John Hawkins. He famously referred to Hawkins as "a most unclubbable man." However, this celebratory volume stands in stark contrast to Johnson's characterization, as it gathers a distinguished group of eighteenth-century studies scholars who come together to honor the remarkable achievements, professional generosity, and sociability of Greg Clingham. As the central theme, the volume explores textual and social group formations, highlighting the ways in which individuals and groups come together to shape and influence society.

In the first chapter, Philip Smallwood delves into the intriguing relationship between Samuel Johnson and William Shakespeare. He explores the "mirrored minds" of these two literary giants, drawing upon their shared experiences, intellectual pursuits, and artistic expressions. Smallwood sheds light on the ways in which Johnson's writings influenced Shakespeare's plays, and vice versa, highlighting the deep connections that existed between these two influential figures.

The second chapter, authored by David Hopkins, takes a broader perspective, examining the intersections of the general and particular in three key eighteenth-century figures: John Locke, Jonathan Swift, and Edmund Burke. Hopkins explores how these individuals grappled with the challenges of modernity, navigating the complex web of ideas and ideologies that shaped their times. He analyzes their writings, speeches, and political actions, highlighting the ways in which they sought to reconcile the universal and the particular, and to find a balance between tradition and innovation.

Aaron Hanlon's chapter explores the rhetorical strategies employed by Samuel Johnson in his celebrated work, "The Rambler." Hanlon analyzes the ways in which Johnson used physical rambling as a means of expressing his thoughts and ideas, and how this technique influenced the structure and style of his writings. He also examines the connections between Johnson's rambling and the broader cultural and social contexts of the eighteenth century, highlighting the role of travel and exploration in shaping Johnson's perspective and his writing.

Cedric D. Reverand's chapter delves into the intertextual strands that unite John Dryden and Alexander Pope in their writings. Reverand analyzes the ways in which these two poets drew upon each other's works, both explicitly and implicitly, creating a rich tapestry of literary allusions and references. He explores the themes and motifs that unite their poetry, highlighting the ways in which they sought to transcend the boundaries of individual authorship and to create a collective body of work that speaks to the broader cultural and historical context of the eighteenth century.

Contributors to this volume take up a range of other topics that are significant to the field of eighteenth-century studies. These include discussions of post-feminism, travel, and seismology, as well as original poetry that reflects upon the themes and ideas explored in the chapters. Each piece in the collection extends the theme of relationship, organizing and expressing its findings in a way that builds upon the trope of connection.

Rounding out this collection are tributes from Clingham's former students and colleagues, including original poetry. These tributes provide a personal perspective on Clingham's impact on the field of eighteenth-century studies and offer a glimpse into the lives and careers of those who were fortunate enough to study under his guidance.

In conclusion, this celebratory volume serves as a testament to the remarkable achievements, professional generosity, and sociability of Greg Clingham. It gathers distinguished scholars from across the globe to honor his contributions to the field of eighteenth-century studies. Through their insightful analyses and original contributions, the authors of this volume shed light on the complex relationships between individuals, groups, and society in the eighteenth century. Whether discussing cultural exchange, textual reciprocities, or other topics significant to the field, each piece extends the theme of relationship, building on the trope of connection to organize and express its findings. This collection is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the rich tapestry of eighteenth-century literature and culture.

Weight: 464g
Dimension: 155 x 235 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781684483501