A Preface to Shakespeare was written by Dr. Samuel Johnson.

Published in 1765 as an introduction to his edition of Shakespeare’s plays, this essay is a landmark of literary criticism. Johnson defends Shakespeare’s genius, praising his ability to hold up a “faithful mirror” to nature while also noting his faults and dismissing the rigid classical unities.

##### About Dr. Samuel Johnson
Samuel Johnson, often referred to as Dr. Johnson, was an English writer who made lasting contributions as a poet, playwright, essayist, moralist, and lexicographer. His personality and critical opinions defined the later 18th century.

##### Other works of Dr. Samuel Johnson
A Dictionary of the English Language, The Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets, and Rasselas.

Note: This is considered one of the most important pieces of Shakespearean criticism ever written.

Source: Britannica, Wikipedia