Journal Entry (Please grade)

Samuel Johnson

Info

- moral essayist second only to Addison

- monumental pronouncer of conservative common sense

- Dictionary of the English Language

- The Rambler

- Lives of the English Poets

- "Vice must always disgust."

Analysis - Rambler 4

Johnson begins by praising realism as the highest standard of achievement in art.  The main media he refers to is literature.  He values a genuine representation of life,  yet still discourages carelessness or irresponsibility in the portrayal of sin.  He observes that people most often imitate sin instead of learning from it.  This is in part due to the decisions of the audience, but the producers of the media encourage it.  This is especially true in today's entertainment industry, where violence and immorality are glorified.  No matter how noble or courageous its intentions, "vice...should always disgust."  Robin Hood stole from the rich to give to the poor, but his good intentions do not detract from his status as a thief.  Johnson does not give any specific examples, yet his general statements are sufficient and concise.

Application

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things" (Phil 4:8, KJV).  This verse seems to be the underlying force behind Rambler 4.  The world--especially the media--will always try to force me and other people to look upon unnecessary, ungodly things, not for didactic purposes, but largely for profit-making.  Johnson warns against these practices.  I am not an author or a media producer, so I don't have many opportunities to heed his advice.  However, as an audience, I can analyze the movies I watch to stay alert and exercise discernment.  Which sin does the movie portray?  How does it view said sin?  As harmful?  Noble?  Dishonorable?  Necessary?  If its only purpose is to gain my attention, yet not teach me something, then it's a waste of my--and ultimately God's--time.

Citation

Horton, Ronald A. British Literature for Christian Schools. Greenville, SC: Bob Jones University Press, 1992.