No man had a more . . . . . . . love for literature, or a higher respect for it, than Dr. Samuel Johnson.

arduous
ardent
animated
adroit

The correct answer is ardent.

  • Ardent means having or showing a strong feeling of love, enthusiasm, or determination.
  • Arduous means difficult or demanding.
  • Animated means full of life and energy.
  • Adroit means skillful or clever.

In this context, the word “ardent” is the best choice because it describes Dr. Johnson’s love for literature as being passionate and intense. The other words do not convey the same level of intensity.