William Smith (lexicographer)

The Antiquities Dictionary Project

Smith next turned his attention to lexicography with a bold new project. His first attempt was A Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities which appeared in 1842. The greater part of this massive work was written by him alone. Then followed the Dictionary of Greek and Roman Biography and Mythology in 1849. A parallel Dictionary of Greek and Roman Geography appeared in 1854 with some leading scholars of the day associated with the task. These three volumes established his reputation as a master compiler of ancient knowledge. They covered everything from daily life to mythology across the Mediterranean world.

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In 1850 Smith published the first of several school dictionaries designed for students. In 1853 he began the Principia series which marked an advance in the school teaching of Greek and Latin. Then came the Student's Manuals of History and Literature where the English literature volume went into 13 editions. Thomas Budd Shaw wrote the Student's Manual of English Literature in London during 1864. He himself wrote the Greek history volume that accompanied it. From 1853 to 1869 Smith served as classical examiner to the University of London. This role allowed him to shape how future generations learned these languages.

When was William Smith born and where did he grow up?

William Smith was born in Enfield on the 20th of May 1813 to Nonconformist parents. He attended the Madras House school of John Allen in Hackney during his childhood years.

What major dictionaries did William Smith publish between 1842 and 1854?

William Smith published A Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities which appeared in 1842 followed by the Dictionary of Greek and Roman Biography and Mythology in 1849. A parallel Dictionary of Greek and Roman Geography appeared in 1854 with some leading scholars of the day associated with the task.

Who collaborated with William Smith on the Dictionary of Christian Biography from 1877 to 1887?

William Smith produced the Dictionary of Christian Biography from 1877 to 1887 jointly with Henry Wace. This work covered biographical entries related to early Christianity alongside other ecclesiastical subjects.

When did William Smith die and where is he buried?

William Smith died on the 7th of October 1893 in London and is buried in a family grave on the eastern side of Highgate Cemetery. He served as editor of the Quarterly Review until his death.

Which publisher took over for William Smith after his original partner met difficulties?

John Murray became the publisher of the 1214-page Latin English Dictionary based upon the works of Forcellini and Freund that Smith completed in 1855. Murray published this work periodically reissued over the next 35 years with new editions appearing in 1857, 1868 and 1888.

William Smith (lexicographer).

The Antiquities Dictionary Project

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Common questions

When was William Smith born and where did he grow up?

What major dictionaries did William Smith publish between 1842 and 1854?

Who collaborated with William Smith on the Dictionary of Christian Biography from 1877 to 1887?

When did William Smith die and where is he buried?

Which publisher took over for William Smith after his original partner met difficulties?

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