Who do you think is Johnson's intended audience in the excerpt that you read?

Answers will vary, but you might say that Johnson's intended audience was his fellow countrymen. Johnson writes, "In hope of giving longevity to that which its own nature forbids to be immortal, I have devoted this book, the labour of years, to the honour of my country."

You might instead argue that Johnson's intended audience was his fellow lexicographers. Throughout the text, he responds to the efforts of authors and academics who are also trying to standardize the language, particularly Johnathan Swift.

PLATO answer

Johnson's intended audience was his fellow lexicographers. Throughout the text, he responds to the efforts of authors and academics who are also trying to standardize the language, particularly Johnathan Swift.

(PLATO answer)