Definition of Biography |Types of Biography with their Example

 Details of Biography 

Definition of Biography: 

A biography is a detailed account or narrative of a person's life, typically encompassing various aspects such as their background, upbringing, achievements, struggles, and contributions to society. Biographies are written to provide insight into the character, personality, and impact of an individual, often drawing on research, interviews, and other sources to construct a comprehensive portrait.

Types of Biography:

Autobiography:

Definition: An autobiography is a biography written by the subject themselves, recounting their own life experiences, perspectives, and insights.

Example: "The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank. It is a firsthand account of Anne Frank's life during the Holocaust, written while she was in hiding from Nazi persecution.

Authorized Biography:

Definition: An authorized biography is a biography written with the cooperation and approval of the subject or their family, often providing access to personal archives, interviews, and other resources.

Example: "Steve Jobs" by Walter Isaacson. This biography was written with the full cooperation of Steve Jobs and his family, providing an in-depth look into the life of the visionary Apple co-founder.

Unauthorized Biography:

Definition: An unauthorized biography is a biography written without the consent or cooperation of the subject or their family. Authors rely on secondary sources and investigative research to compile the narrative.

Example: "The Last Days of Marilyn Monroe" by Donald H. Wolfe. This unauthorized biography delves into the final days of Marilyn Monroe's life, offering insights into her relationships, struggles, and mysterious death.

Collective Biography:

Definition: A collective biography focuses on a group of individuals who share a common characteristic, such as profession, nationality, or era. It provides insights into the collective experiences and contributions of the group.

Example: "The Wright Brothers" by David McCullough. This collective biography explores the lives of Orville and Wilbur Wright, pioneers of aviation, and their contributions to the development of flight.

Literary Biography:

Definition: A literary biography focuses on the life of a writer, poet, or literary figure, examining their works, influences, and the cultural context in which they lived.

Example: "Shakespeare: The Biography" by Peter Ackroyd. This literary biography delves into the life of William Shakespeare, exploring his works, relationships, and the world of Elizabethan England.

Critical Biography:

Definition: A critical biography analyzes the subject's life and works through a critical lens, examining their impact, significance, and controversies surrounding their legacy.

Example: "Einstein: His Life and Universe" by Walter Isaacson. This critical biography of Albert Einstein provides a comprehensive analysis of his scientific achievements, personal life, and the broader implications of his theories.

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