biography definition vocabulary

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Definition of biography noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• Boswell’s biography of Johnson
• a biography by Antonia Fraser
• The book gives potted biographies of all the major painters.
• blockbuster
• unauthorized
• biography by
• biography of

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Look up any word in the dictionary offline, anytime, anywhere with the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app.

Other results

• The Dictionary of National Biography
• Dictionary of National Biography

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Biography Vocabulary Words

Biography vocabulary words are words associated with writing and understanding biographies. These words help to describe the life and accomplishments of a historical figure, artist, or other public figure. They include words like biography, autobiography, timeline, legacy, and influence. They are important to know when studying the life of someone in history or researching a current public figure. Knowing these words can help in understanding biographies more effectively and accurately.

Definition of Biography

Vocabulary Words

Biography is a detailed description of a person’s life, usually with the purpose of understanding their actions, motivations, and accomplishments. As such, there are certain vocabulary words associated with biographies that are important to know and understand in order to comprehend these stories. Here are some of the most common vocabulary words associated with biographical narratives and their definitions:

Anecdote: A short, entertaining story or account of an incident.

Biographer: A person who writes a biography, either as an occupation or as an author.

Context: The circumstances that form the setting of a particular event or conversation.

Epilogue: A brief concluding section to a book or play, typically expressing the moral or practical lesson to be learned.

Factoid: A brief or trivial item of news or information.

Impartial: Not biased or influenced by personal feelings or opinions in considering and representing facts.

Obituary: A notice of someone’s death, typically including a short biography.

Perspective: A particular attitude toward or way of considering a matter.

Reliable: Consistently trustworthy and accurate.

Significance: The quality of being worthy of attention; importance.

Timeline: A sequence of events in chronological order.

Types of Biographies

Biographies provide readers with a glimpse into the lives of some of the most influential people in history. While many biographies are written about historical figures, they can also be written about contemporary figures as well. Regardless of the subject, there are several types of biographies that can be written.

The most common type of biography is an autobiographical account, which is written by the subject of the biography themselves. Autobiographical biographies document the life of the writer in great detail, from their birth to their most recent accomplishments. Autobiographies are often written when the subject is of great importance or has achieved a certain level of success.

The second type of biography is a biographical account. These are written by an author who has researched the subject’s life, and is typically written when the subject has passed away. Biographical accounts provide readers with a comprehensive overview of the subject’s life, including any major accomplishments or significant events.

The third type of biography is a hagiography, which is a type of biography written with an emphasis on the subject’s idealized virtues and heroic deeds. Hagiographies are typically written about religious figures or influential people.

Finally, there is a biographical novel, which is a combination of a biography and a novel. Biographical novels use the facts of the subject’s life to create a fictional narrative, allowing the writer to create a more engaging and entertaining story.

No matter which type of biography you are writing, it’s important to remember that biographies should be informative, accurate, and engaging. While they may be based on the same subject, each type of biography has its own unique purpose and should be written accordingly.

Common Biography Vocabulary Words

Biographies are stories about people’s lives, and they’re often used to learn more about a person’s accomplishments, experiences, and personal attributes. When reading biographies, students should be aware of common biography vocabulary words that are used to describe the person’s character, achievements, and other aspects of their life. Knowing these words will help students understand biographies more easily.

Some of the most common words associated with biographies are “birth,” “death,” “education,” “career,” “accomplishments,” “influence,” “legacy,” “contributions,” and “family.” Other words that can be used to describe a person’s life include “achievements,” “influences,” “mentors,” “friends,” “experiences,” “travels,” and “hobbies.” All of these words can help give insight into the person’s life and accomplishments.

Learning common biography vocabulary words can help students better comprehend biographies and better understand the lives of individuals. By familiarizing themselves with these words, students can become better readers and gain a deeper understanding of the people they are learning about.

Examples of Biography Vocabulary in Context

Biographies provide readers with an in-depth look into the lives of people, their accomplishments, and their impact on society. To effectively convey the story of a person’s life, biography authors must use precise language to describe the events and individuals involved. To help these authors, there is a variety of biography-specific vocabulary words available. From words that describe people’s behavior to words that explain events, biography vocabulary words can help readers better understand the story of a person’s life.

To illustrate the importance of biography vocabulary, let’s take a look at some examples of biography words in context.

The term “milestone” is often used to describe an important event or achievement in a person’s life. For example, a biography about a scientist might discuss the “milestone” of their discovery of a new element.

The word “legacy” is used to describe the lasting impact that a person has had on their field or society in general. For example, a biography about a politician might discuss the “legacy” of their initiatives that are still in place today.

The phrase “formative years” is used to refer to the period of time when a person is learning and growing, usually during their childhood. For example, a biography about an author might discuss their “formative years” and how they shaped their writing style.

By using words like “milestone,” “legacy,” and “formative years,” biographers can provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of a person’s life. With the right vocabulary, biographers can help readers gain insight into the events and individuals that shaped a person’s life.

Tips for Learning Biography Vocabulary

Biography is a great way to understand the lives of historical figures, celebrities, and other influential people. But to comprehend the biographies you read, it’s important to know the vocabulary associated with them. To make the learning process easier, here are some tips for mastering biography vocabulary.

Firstly, start with the basics. Before diving into the more complex words associated with biographies, get to grips with the terms you’re most likely to come across. Get to know the language associated with biographies and familiarize yourself with the common biography vocabulary words.

Once you have the basics down, look into how biography vocabulary is used in context. Instead of just memorizing words, it’s important to understand the nuances of how they’re used. For example, a word can have a different meaning when used in a sentence or when used in a different field.

Additionally, it helps to have a system of practice. Flashcards are a great way to test your knowledge and commit words to memory. Similarly, reading biographies regularly and writing down the biography vocabulary words you come across will also help you remember them.

Finally, the best way to build your vocabulary is to talk about the words you’ve learned. Discussing the words and their definitions with other people is an effective way to cement them in your memory.

These tips are sure to help you boost your biography vocabulary. With a little bit of practice and patience, you’ll be able to read biographies with ease and understand the people and events that shaped history.

Biographies are an invaluable resource for learning about the lives of historical figures and the events that shaped them. Knowing key biography vocabulary words can help readers better understand biographies and the stories they tell. From the Latin word biographia, which means “the writing of life,” biographies offer readers a glimpse into the past and the people who lived it. Whether you’re reading a biography for pleasure or for research, understanding these key words can help you appreciate the story even more. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to better understand the language used in biographies, as well as the events and people described in them.

FAQs About the Biography Vocabulary Words

Q1: What is a “hagiography”? A1: A hagiography is a type of biography that focuses on the life of a particular saint, religious figure, or hero. The hagiography typically includes tales of miracles, heroic acts, and other examples of piety.

Q2: What is an “autobiography”? A2: An autobiography is a type of biography that is written by the subject themselves. It is a firsthand account of the life of the individual, and can include details of family, education, work, relationships, and other aspects of their life.

Q3: What is a “biopic”? A3: A biopic is a type of film or television program that is based on the life of a particular person. It is often used as a form of entertainment, but can also provide an insight into the life of a famous individual.

Biography vocabulary words are essential when discussing the life and work of a person. They provide a way to accurately describe the individual, their accomplishments, and their legacy. Knowing the right words to use when writing or speaking about someone’s life can help us to better understand and appreciate the individual’s story. With the right vocabulary, biographers can craft a story that will leave a lasting impression.

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BIO: A vocabulary for biographical information

Other formats: RDF/XML

This document describes a vocabulary for describing biographical information about people, both living and dead.

The BIO vocabulary contains terms useful for finding out more about people and their backgrounds and has some cross-over into genealogical information. The approach taken is to describe a person's life as a series of interconnected key events, around which other information can be woven. This vocabulary defines the event framework and supplies a set of core event types that cover many use cases, but it is expected that it will be extended in other vocabularies to suit their needs. The intention of this vocabulary is to describe biographical events of people and this intention carries through to the definitions of the properties and classes which are person-centric rather than neutral. For example the Employment event puts the person being employed as the principal agent in the event rather than the employer.

The BIO vocabulary defines a number of core classes and properties for describing biographical information:

At its heart the BIO vocabulary is concerned with people, their relationships and the events in their lives. Together these can be used to build up a narrative of a person's life and their interactions with other people, organizations and the world around them. Events bound intervals of time that may be associated with particular relationships between people and groups or organisations. Many different types of life event are defined in this vocabulary including the obvious Birth, Marriage and Death but also Coronation, Performance and even Murder. These events are not intended to be fully comprehensive but are representative of the types of events associated with biographical material. Currently the relationship segment of the vocabulary is underspecified with only a generic Relationship class available. It is envisaged that many types of relationship such as families, employments and ownerships will be specified in the future.

The sequence of events and intervals build a timeline of history against which people and their relationships can be placed. The aim is to enable simple forms of genealogical reasoning such as determining whether a child was born out of wedlock or the location of a family given the fact one of their children was attending a particular school. Events are ordered in time by relating them to one another and to abstract intervals of time:

Please see https://github.com/iand/vocab-bio for the master version of this vocabulary.

Please direct feedback on this document to the FOAF-DEV mailing list"

• 2003-03-07 - first issued
• 2003-07-28 - semantic change by Ian Davis: Added keywords property
• 2004-03-05 - editorial change by Ian Davis: Added Creative Commons license
• 2005-04-01 - editorial change by Ian Davis: Added examples
• 2009-05-19 - editorial change by Ian Davis: Minor changes to improve publishing process
• 2010-04-20 - editorial change by Ian Davis: Added change history
• 2010-05-10 - semantic change by Ian Davis: Major expansion of properties and classes
• 2010-05-20 - editorial change by Ian Davis: Batch of revisions based on community feedback
• 2010-06-05 - semantic change by Ian Davis: Added biography property
• 2010-06-06 - semantic change by Ian Davis: Added subproperty and equivalent property relations for bio:father, bio:mother and bio:child
• 2011-06-10 - semantic change by Ian Davis: Added bio:Formation and bio:Disbanding events
• 2011-06-10 - semantic change by Ian Davis: Added bio:Performance event
• 2011-06-14 - editorial change by Ian Davis: Expanded description and added diagrams
• 2011-06-14 - semantic change by Alexandre Passant: Added properties for Birth and Death Event types, motivated by JSON serialisations of RDF
• 2011-06-14 - semantic change by Ian Davis: Added bio:Relationship class and properties

The URI for this vocabulary is

When abbreviating terms the suggested prefix is bio

Each class or property in the vocabulary has a URI constructed by appending a term name to the vocabulary URI. For example:

Terms Grouped by Theme

Properties that relate an event to another event: Concurrent Event , Following Event , Preceding Event , Immediately Following Event and Immediately Preceding Event

Terms Summary

An alphabetical list of all terms defined in this schema.

Properties and Classes

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Accession

The event of a person succeeding to the right to hold regal power. This event is often automatic on the death of the previous monarch and is usually followed by a coronation event.

Being a member of this class implies also being a member of Individual Event .

• 2010-05-03 - first issued

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Adoption

The event of creating of a legal parent/child relationship that does not exist biologically.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/agent

A person, organization or group that plays a role in an event.

Having this property implies being an Event . Every value of this property is a foaf:Agent . It is a sub-property of owl:differentFrom and the inverse of Life Event

• 2010-05-05 - first issued

Other Information

Agent relationship.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Relationship

A particular type of connection existing between people, groups or organizations related to or having dealings with each other.

Having Participant or Relationship Interval implies being a member of this class. Things are a member of this class if they are the value of Relationship . It is equivalent to rel:Relationship .

• 2011-06-14 - first issued

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Annulment

The event of declaring a marriage void from the beginning as though it never existed.

Being a member of this class implies also being a member of Group Event .

Assassination

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Assassination

The event of a person being deliberately targeted and killed.

Being a member of this class implies also being a member of Murder .

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Baptism

The ceremonial event held to admit a person to membership of a Christian church.

• 2010-05-20 - editorial change by Ian Davis: Revised comment, replacing 'the Christian church' with 'a Christian church'

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/BarMitzvah

The ceremonial event held when a Jewish boy reaches age 13.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/BasMitzvah

The ceremonial event held when a Jewish girl reaching age 13, also known as "Bat Mitzvah."

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/biography

An extended description or account of someone's life.

It is expected that the value of this property is either a literal formatted with HTML markup or a pointer to an HTML document.

Having this property implies being a foaf:Person .

• 2010-06-05 - first issued

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Birth

The event of a person entering into life.

Being a member of this class implies also being a member of Individual Event . Things are a member of this class if they are the value of Birth Event .

The birth of Albert Einstein

• 2010-05-04 - editorial change by Ian Davis: Marked as testing

Birth Event

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/birth

An birth event associated with a person, group or organization.

Having this property implies being a foaf:Agent . Every value of this property is a Birth . It is a sub-property of Life Event and owl:differentFrom .

• 2011-07-12 - semantic change by Alexandre Passant: Proposed addition of the property

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Burial

The event of interring the remains of a person's body into the ground.

Change of Name

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/NameChange

The event of a person changing their name.

Change of Position

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/PositionChange

The event of a person changing the position they hold with an employer.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/child

A biological child of a person.

Having this property implies being a foaf:Person . Every value of this property is a foaf:Person . It is a sub-property of owl:differentFrom . It is equivalent to Is parent of .

• 2010-06-06 - semantic change by Ian Davis: Made equivalent to rel:parentOf on suggestion of Gautier Poupeau

Concluding Event

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/concludingEvent

An event that marks the end of an interval and/or relationship. The event changes of the state of affairs that held during the interval. For example a period of study may be concluded by a Graduation event.

Every value of this property is an Event . It is a sub-property of owl:differentFrom .

• 2010-05-06 - first issued

Concurrent Event

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/concurrentEvent

An event that occurs while this event is occurring. The events need not start or conclude at the same times.

This property is symmetrical. Having this property implies being an Event . Every value of this property is an Event . It is a sub-property of owl:differentFrom .

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Coronation

The ceremonial event of a person being invested with regal power to become a monarch.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Cremation

The event of disposing of the remains of a person's body by fire.

The cremation of Albert Einstein

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/date

The date at which an event occurred.

The date should be formatted as specified in ISO8601 . For example: 2003-03-15 corresponds to the 15th March 2003, and 2003-03-15T13:21-05:00 corresponds to 15th March 2003, 8:21 am, US Eastern Standard Time.

Having this property implies being an Event . It is a sub-property of Date .

• 2010-05-03 - editorial change by Ian Davis: Added a plural label
• 2010-05-04 - editorial change by Ian Davis: Marked as a stable term

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Death

The event of a person's life ending.

Being a member of this class implies also being a member of Individual Event . Things are a member of this class if they are the value of Death Event .

The death of Albert Einstein

Death event.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/death

An death event associated with a person, group or organization.

Having this property implies being a foaf:Agent . Every value of this property is a Death . It is a sub-property of Life Event and owl:differentFrom .

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Demotion

The event of a person changing the position they hold with an employer to one with less importance or responsibility.

Being a member of this class implies also being a member of Change of Position .

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Disbanding

The event of a group or organization being disbanded.

• 2011-06-10 - first issued

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Dismissal

The event of a person involuntarily giving up their office or position. Dismissal is often perceived to be the employee's fault and may be considered disgraceful.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Divorce

The event of legally dissolving a marriage.

The divorce of Albert Einstein and Mileva Marić

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Emigration

The event of a person leaving their homeland with the intent of residing elsewhere.

Albert Einstein emigrating to the United States

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/employer

An agent that is involved in an event as an employer.

Having this property implies being an Event . Every value of this property is a foaf:Agent . It is a sub-property of Agent .

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Employment

The event of a person entering an occupational relationship with an employer.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Enrolment

The event of a person initiating attendence to a school or other place of learning.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Event

An event is an occurrence that brings about a change in the state of affairs for one or more people and/or other agents. Events are assumed to occur over a period of time and may not have precise start and end points.

Being a member of this class implies also being a member of c4dm:Event , cyc:Event , msg0:Event and dctype:Event . Having Date , Place , Position , Event Interval , Preceding Event , Immediately Preceding Event , Following Event , Immediately Following Event , Concurrent Event , Agent , Employer , State , Parent , Principal , Partner , Officiator , Witness , Spectator or Organization implies being a member of this class. Things are a member of this class if they are the value of Preceding Event , Immediately Preceding Event , Following Event , Immediately Following Event , Concurrent Event , Initiating Event , Concluding Event or Life Event .

• 2010-05-04 - semantic change by Ian Davis: Made equivalent to cyc:Event
• 2010-05-20 - editorial change by Ian Davis: Marked as testing status
• 2010-05-20 - semantic change by Ian Davis: Removed subclass of owl-time ProperInteval

Event Interval

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/eventInterval

The interval during which the event occurs. This interval represents the exact interval of occurence for an event, it starts at the moment the event commences and finishes when the event concludes. In other words both the event and the interval start at the same instant of time and extend for the same duration.

Having this property implies being an Event . Every value of this property is an Interval .

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Execution

The event of a person being deliberately killed as punishment.

Being a member of this class implies also being a member of Death .

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/father

The biological father of a person, also known as the genitor.

This property is functional. Having this property implies being a foaf:Person . Every value of this property is a foaf:Person . It is a sub-property of owl:differentFrom and Is child of .

• 2010-06-06 - semantic change by Ian Davis: Made subproperty of rel:childOf on suggestion of Gautier Poupeau

Following Event

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/followingEvent

An event that starts at some time after this event.

This property is transitive. Having this property implies being an Event . Every value of this property is an Event . It is a sub-property of owl:differentFrom .

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Formation

The event of a group or organization coming into being.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Funeral

The event of marking a person's death with a ceremony.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Graduation

The event of a person being awarded educational diplomas or degrees.

Albert Einstein receiving his Doctorate from the University of Zurich

Group event.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/GroupEvent

A type of event that is principally about one or more agents and their partnership. Other agents may be involved but the event is most significant for the partner agent.

Every member of this class has at least 2 Partner properties. Being a member of this class implies also being a member of Event and a class that has at least 2 Partner properties.

Immediately Following Event

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/immediatelyFollowingEvent

An event that starts immediately after this event.

Having this property implies being an Event . Every value of this property is an Event . It is a sub-property of owl:differentFrom and Following Event .

Immediately Preceding Event

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/immediatelyPrecedingEvent

An event that occurs and concludes immediately before this event.

Having this property implies being an Event . Every value of this property is an Event . It is a sub-property of owl:differentFrom and Preceding Event .

Imprisonment

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Imprisonment

The event of a person being detained in a jail or prison.

• 2010-05-04 - first issued

Inauguration

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Inauguration

The ceremonial event marking the beginning of a person's term of office as a leader.

Individual Event

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/IndividualEvent

A type of event that is principally about a single person, group or organization. Other agents may be involved but the event is most significant for the principal agent.

Every member of this class has exactly 1 Principal property. Being a member of this class implies also being a member of Event and a class that has exactly 1 Principal property.

Initiating Event

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/initiatingEvent

An event that marks the start of an interval and/or relationship. The event contributes to and/or causes of the state of affairs that hold during the interval. For example a period of study may be initiated by an Enrolment event.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Interval

A extended interval of time related to a particular state of affairs, such as the lifespan of a person or a period of employment.

Being a member of this class implies also being a member of time:ProperInterval . Things are a member of this class if they are the value of Event Interval or Relationship Interval .

Investiture

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Investiture

The ceremonial event of a person taking a public office or honour.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/keywords

A comma delimited list of key words that describe a person.

Having this property implies being a foaf:Person . Every value of this property is a rdfs:Literal . It is a sub-property of Subject .

• 2003-07-28 - first issued
• 2010-05-03 - semantic change by Ian Davis: Declared that this is a datatype property

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/event

An event associated with a person, group or organization.

Having this property implies being a foaf:Agent . Every value of this property is an Event . It is a sub-property of owl:differentFrom and the inverse of Agent

• 2010-05-03 - semantic change by Ian Davis: Made a subproperty of owl:differentFrom
• 2011-06-14 - semantic change by Ian Davis: Changed domain to foaf:Agent

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Marriage

The event of creating uniting the participants into a new family unit, sometimes accompanied by a formal wedding ceremony. This is intended to cover a broad range of marriages including those given formal legal standing, common-law, or by convention. It is not restricted to marriages of two people of the opposite gender, but also includes polygamous and same-sex unions.

Being a member of this class implies also being a member of Group Event . It is equivalent to cyc:WeddingEvent_Generic .

The marriage of Albert Einstein and Mileva Marić

• 2010-05-04 - semantic change by Ian Davis: Made equivalent to cyc:WeddingEvent_Generic

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/mother

The biological mother of a person, also known as the genetrix.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Murder

The event of a person being killed unlawfully with intent by the killer.

Naturalization

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Naturalization

The event of a person obtaining citizenship. Note that the place the naturalization event occurs at may be different from the state the person is obtaining citizenship of.

Albert Einstein becoming a citizen of the United States

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/officiator

A person that officiates at a ceremonial event.

Having this property implies being an Event . Every value of this property is a foaf:Person . It is a sub-property of Agent .

One-line bio

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/olb

A one-line biography of the person.

Having this property implies being a foaf:Person . Every value of this property is a rdfs:Literal .

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Ordination

The ceremonial event held when a person receives authority to act in religious matters.

Organization

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/organization

An organization that plays a role in an event.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/parent

A person that takes the parent role in an event.

Participant

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/participant

A person, group or organization that participates in a relationship for some time.

Having this property implies being an Agent Relationship . Every value of this property is a foaf:Agent . It is a sub-property of owl:differentFrom and the inverse of Relationship It is equivalent to rel:participant .

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/partner

A person that is involved in a event as a partner in a relationship.

Performance

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Performance

The event of an individual or a group of performers performing. Examples include concerts, plays, recitals, recordings, busking etc.

Being a member of this class implies also being a member of Group Event . It is equivalent to mo:Performance .

• 2011-06-12 - first issued

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/place

The place at which an event occurred.

Having this property implies being an Event .

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/position

The employment position or public office involved in an event.

Preceding Event

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/precedingEvent

An event that occurs and concludes at some time before this event.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/principal

A person that takes the primary and most important role in an event. For example the principal in a Birth event would be the child being born and the principal in a Burial event would be the deceased person.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Promotion

The event of a person changing the position they hold with an employer to one with more importance or responsibility.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Redundancy

The event of a person involuntarily giving up an office or position that is no longer needed. Redundancy is usually perceived to be the employer's fault and is usually due to conditions outside of the employee's control.

Relationship

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/relationship

A relationship that a person, group or organization participates in for some time.

Having this property implies being a foaf:Agent . Every value of this property is an Agent Relationship . It is a sub-property of owl:differentFrom and the inverse of Participant It is equivalent to rel:participantIn .

Relationship Interval

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/interval

The interval during which the relationship persists.

Having this property implies being an Agent Relationship . Every value of this property is an Interval .

Resignation

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Resignation

The event of a person voluntarily giving up or quitting their office or position.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/Retirement

The event of a person exiting an occupational relationship with an employer after a qualifying time period. In many cultures retirement is expected and even required once the person reaches a particular age.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/spectator

A person that is present at and observes the occurrence of at least part of an event.

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/state

A country or independent territory that is involved in an event.

Having this property implies being an Event . It is a sub-property of Agent .

URI: http://purl.org/vocab/bio/0.1/witness

A person that witnesses and can bear testimony to the occurrence of an event.

Having this property implies being an Event . Every value of this property is a foaf:Person . It is a sub-property of Spectator .

A Biography of Henry VIII, King of England

Based on information at Wikipedia and Hull University

The source for this page can be found in the Github repository .

What Is a Biography? Definition & 25+ Examples

Have you ever wondered what lies beneath the surface of history’s most influential figures?

Imagine a chance to delve into the intricate tapestry of their lives, unraveling the threads that have woven together the very essence of their character, and unearthing the pivotal moments that shaped their destinies.

Welcome to the enthralling world of biographies, where you are invited to embark on a captivating journey into the lives of the extraordinary. Prepare to be captivated by the compelling tales of human resilience, ingenuity, and ambition that lie at the heart of each biography.

Table of Contents

Defining Biography

A biography is a detailed account of a person’s life, written by someone other than the subject. The term “biography” is derived from two Greek words: “bio,” which means life, and “graphy,” which signifies writing. Thus, a biography is the written history of someone’s life, offering an in-depth look at their experiences, achievements, and challenges.

Biographies typically focus on the life of notable individuals, such as historical figures or celebrities, and provide a comprehensive view of their personal and professional journey.

Biographers, the authors of these works, aim to offer an accurate, well-researched portrayal of their subjects by studying various sources and conducting interviews if possible. This thorough research and attention to detail ensure that the resulting narrative is both informative and engaging.

Biographies are a subgenre of non-fiction literature, as they chronicle the lives of real people. However, not all life stories fall under the category of biography.

Autobiographies and memoirs, for instance, focus on the author’s own experiences and are written from a first-person perspective. While autobiographies aim to present an overarching narrative of the author’s life, memoirs tend to focus on specific incidents or periods.

When crafting a biography, it is essential for the biographer to maintain a neutral tone, avoiding any judgment or personal bias. This objectivity allows readers to form their opinions based on the presented facts, gaining a broader understanding of the subject.

Elements of a Biography

A well-crafted biography contains several key elements that provide a comprehensive picture of the subject’s life. These elements help readers gain a deeper understanding of the subject while fostering an emotional connection. Below are some essential aspects of a biography:

Personal and Family Background

The personal and family background section of a biography provides an essential foundation for understanding the subject’s journey and the factors that shaped their life. By exploring the subject’s early years, readers gain insight into the environment and experiences that influenced their character, values, and aspirations.

This section typically begins with an overview of the subject’s birthplace, family origins, and cultural heritage. It delves into the family dynamics, including descriptions of the subject’s parents, siblings, and extended family, shedding light on the relationships that played a crucial role in their development.

The personal and family background section also addresses significant life events, challenges, and milestones that occurred during the subject’s upbringing. These formative experiences may include pivotal moments, such as moving to a new city, attending a particular school, or encountering a mentor who had a lasting impact on their life.

Education and Career

The education and career section of a biography is crucial for understanding the intellectual and professional development of the subject. By tracing the subject’s academic journey and career progression, readers gain a clearer picture of the knowledge, skills, and experiences that shaped their path and contributed to their success.

This section begins by outlining the subject’s educational background, including the schools they attended, the degrees or qualifications they obtained, and any specialized training they received. It also highlights the subject’s academic achievements, such as scholarships, awards, or distinctions, and any influential mentors or teachers who played a significant role in their intellectual growth.

The education and career section also delves into the subject’s professional life, chronicling their work history, job titles, and key responsibilities. It explores the subject’s career trajectory, examining how they transitioned between roles or industries and the factors that influenced their choices.

Major Events and Turning Points

The major events and turning points section of a biography delves into the pivotal moments and experiences that significantly influenced the subject’s life, shaping their character, values, and destiny.

By exploring these transformative events, readers gain a deeper understanding of the forces and circumstances that drove the subject’s actions and choices, as well as the challenges and triumphs they faced along the way.

This section encompasses a wide range of events, which could include personal milestones, such as marriage, the birth of children, or the loss of a loved one.

These personal events often provide insights into the subject’s emotional landscape and reveal the support systems, relationships, and personal values that sustained them through difficult times or propelled them to greater heights.

Influences and Inspirations

The influences and inspirations section of a biography delves into the individuals, ideas, and events that had a profound impact on the subject’s beliefs, values, and aspirations.

By understanding the forces that shaped the subject’s worldview, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the motivations driving their actions and decisions, as well as the creative and intellectual foundations upon which their accomplishments were built.

This section often begins by identifying the key figures who played a significant role in the subject’s life, such as family members, mentors, peers, or historical figures they admired.

It explores the nature of these relationships and how they shaped the subject’s perspectives, values, and ambitions. These influential individuals can provide valuable insights into the subject’s personal growth and development, revealing the sources of inspiration and guidance that fueled their journey.

The influences and inspirations section also delves into the ideas and philosophies that resonated with the subject and shaped their worldview. This could include an exploration of the subject’s religious, political, or philosophical beliefs, as well as the books, theories, or artistic movements that inspired them.

This section examines the events, both personal and historical, that impacted the subject’s life and inspired their actions. These could include moments of personal transformation, such as a life-altering experience or an epiphany, or broader societal events, such as wars, social movements, or technological innovations.

Contributions and Impact

The contributions and impact section of a biography is pivotal in conveying the subject’s lasting significance, both in their chosen profession and beyond. By detailing their achievements, innovations, and legacies, this section helps readers grasp the extent of the subject’s influence and the ways in which their work has shaped the world around them.

This section begins by highlighting the subject’s key accomplishments within their profession, such as breakthroughs, discoveries, or innovative techniques they developed. It delves into the processes and challenges they faced along the way, providing valuable insights into their creativity, determination, and problem-solving abilities.

The contributions and impact section also explores the subject’s broader influence on society, culture, or the world at large. This could include their involvement in social or political movements, their philanthropic endeavors, or their role as a cultural icon.

In addition to discussing the subject’s immediate impact, this section also considers their lasting legacy, exploring how their work has continued to inspire and shape subsequent generations.

This could involve examining the subject’s influence on their successors, the institutions or organizations they helped establish, or the enduring relevance of their ideas and achievements in contemporary society.

Personal Traits and Characteristics

The personal traits and characteristics section of a biography brings the subject to life, offering readers an intimate glimpse into their personality, qualities, and views.

This section often begins by outlining the subject’s defining personality traits, such as their temperament, values, and passions. By exploring these attributes, readers gain insight into the subject’s character and the motivations driving their actions and decisions.

These qualities could include their perseverance, curiosity, empathy, or sense of humor, which may help explain their achievements, relationships, and outlook on life.

The personal traits and characteristics section also delves into the subject’s views and beliefs, offering a window into their thoughts and opinions on various topics. This could include their perspectives on politics, religion, culture, or social issues, providing readers with a clearer understanding of the context in which they operated and the factors that shaped their worldview.

Anecdotes and personal stories play a crucial role in illustrating the subject’s personality and characteristics, as they offer concrete examples of their behavior, actions, or interactions with others.

Quotes and first-hand accounts from the subject or those who knew them well can also be invaluable in portraying their personal traits and characteristics. These accounts offer unique insights into the subject’s thoughts, feelings, and experiences, allowing readers to see the world through their eyes and better understand their character.

Types of Biographies

Biographies come in various forms and styles, each presenting unique perspectives on the lives of individuals. Some of the most common types of biographies are discussed in the following sub-sections.

Historical Fiction Biography

Historical fiction biographies artfully weave together factual information with imaginative elements, creating a vibrant tapestry of the past. By staying true to the core of a historical figure’s life and accomplishments, these works offer a unique window into their world while granting authors the creative freedom to delve deeper into their emotions, relationships, and personal struggles.

Such biographies strike a delicate balance, ensuring that the essence of the individual remains intact while allowing for fictional embellishments to bring their story to life. This captivating blend of fact and fiction serves to humanize these iconic figures, making their experiences more relatable and engaging for readers who embark on a journey through the pages of history.

Here are several examples of notable historical fiction biographies:

• “Wolf Hall” by Hilary Mantel (2009)
• “The Paris Wife” by Paula McLain (2011)
• “Girl with a Pearl Earring” by Tracy Chevalier (1999)
• “The Other Boleyn Girl” by Philippa Gregory (2001)
• “Loving Frank” by Nancy Horan (2007)

Academic Biography

Academic biographies stand as meticulously researched and carefully crafted scholarly works, dedicated to presenting an accurate and comprehensive account of a subject’s life.

Authored by experts or researchers well-versed in their field, these biographies adhere to rigorous standards of accuracy, sourcing, and objectivity. They delve into the intricacies of a person’s life, achievements, and impact, scrutinizing every aspect with scholarly precision.

Intended for an educated audience, academic biographies serve as valuable resources for those seeking a deeper understanding of the subject’s contributions and influence. By placing the individual within the broader context of their time, these works illuminate the complex web of factors that shaped their lives and legacies.

While academic biographies may not always carry the same narrative flair as their fictional counterparts, their commitment to factual integrity and thorough analysis make them indispensable resources for scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike

Here are several examples of notable academic biographies:

• “Einstein: His Life and Universe” by Walter Isaacson (2007)
• “Steve Jobs” by Walter Isaacson (2011)
• “John Adams” by David McCullough (2001)
• “Alexander the Great” by Robin Lane Fox (1973)
• “Marie Curie: A Life” by Susan Quinn (1995)

Authorized Biographies

Authorized biographies offer a unique perspective on the lives of their subjects, as they are written with the explicit consent and, often, active participation of the individual in question.

This collaboration between the biographer and the subject can lead to a more accurate, detailed, and intimate portrayal of the person’s life, as the author is granted access to a wealth of personal information, documents, and anecdotes that might otherwise be inaccessible.

When working on an authorized biography, the biographer is typically given permission to access personal documents, such as letters, diaries, and photographs, which can provide invaluable insights into the subject’s thoughts, emotions, and experiences.

This primary source material allows the biographer to construct a narrative that is grounded in fact and captures the essence of the individual’s life and personality.

Here are several examples of notable authorized biographies:

• “Mandela: The Authorized Biography” by Anthony Sampson (1999)
• “Marilyn Monroe: The Biography” by Donald Spoto (1993)
• “Joni Mitchell: In Her Own Words” by Malka Marom (2014)
• “The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life” by Alice Schroeder (2008)
• “Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg” by Irin Carmon and Shana Knizhnik (2015)

Fictionalized Academic Biography

Fictionalized academic biographies merge the best of both worlds, combining the rigorous research and scholarly integrity of academic biographies with the engaging storytelling of historical fiction.

Authors of these works expertly navigate the delicate balance between maintaining factual accuracy and venturing into the realm of imagination.

This approach allows them to explore the subject’s personal life, relationships, and the broader historical context in a compelling manner, while ensuring the narrative remains firmly rooted in well-researched facts.

Here are several examples of notable fictionalized academic biographies:

• “The Women” by T.C. Boyle (2009)
• “Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald” by Therese Anne Fowler (2013)
• “The Marriage of Opposites” by Alice Hoffman (2015)
• “Vanessa and Her Sister” by Priya Parmar (2014)
• “The Last Days of Night” by Graham Moore (2016)

Prophetic Biography

Prophetic biographies delve into the rich and profound narratives of religious figures or prophets, meticulously weaving together insights from sacred texts, religious traditions, and historical accounts.

By providing a comprehensive portrayal of the individual’s life, teachings, and impact on society, these biographies serve as an invaluable resource for understanding the pivotal role these figures played in shaping the course of religious history and the lives of the faithful.

Here are several examples of notable prophetic biographies:

• “Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources” by Martin Lings (1983)
• “The Life of Moses” by F.B. Meyer (1893)
• “The Life of the Buddha: According to the Pali Canon” by Bhikkhu Ñāṇamoli (1972)
• “The Quest of the Historical Jesus” by Albert Schweitzer (1906)
• “The Lives of the Saints” by Alban Butler (1756)

Biography Development Process

A biography is a comprehensive written account of an individual’s life, and the development process involves several essential components to ensure the biography’s accuracy and readability.

A biographer’s primary responsibility is to conduct extensive research in order to gather a comprehensive array of facts about the subject. This meticulous process involves reviewing various documents and sources that shed light on the individual’s life and experiences, as well as the historical context in which they lived.

Key documents, such as birth and death certificates, provide essential information about the subject’s origins and family background. Personal correspondence, letters, and diaries offer invaluable insights into the subject’s thoughts, emotions, relationships, and experiences. News articles, on the other hand, can reveal public perceptions of the subject, as well as their impact on society and culture.

Archives often serve as treasure troves of information for biographers, as they contain a wealth of primary sources that can help illuminate the subject’s life and times. These archives may include collections of personal papers, photographs, audio recordings, and other materials that offer first-hand accounts of the individual’s experiences or shed light on their accomplishments and impact.

Consulting relevant books and articles is another crucial aspect of a biographer’s research process, as these secondary sources provide context, analysis, and interpretation of the subject’s life and work.

By delving into the existing scholarship and engaging with the works of other researchers, biographers can solidify their understanding of the individual and the historical circumstances in which they lived.

Interviewing people who knew the subject personally is a vital component of a biographer’s research process, as it allows them to access unique insights, personal stories, and firsthand accounts of the individual’s life.

Friends, family members, co-workers, and colleagues can all offer valuable perspectives on the subject’s character, relationships, achievements, and challenges, thereby enriching the biographer’s understanding of their life and experiences.

While subjective anecdotes offer a more intimate glimpse into the subject’s personality and personal life, it is essential for biographers to balance these accounts with factual research.

By corroborating and contextualizing personal stories with objective information gleaned from primary and secondary sources, biographers can ensure that their portrayal of the individual’s life remains accurate and well-rounded.

This process of balancing subjective anecdotes with factual research also allows biographers to present a more nuanced and comprehensive view of their subject. By weaving together personal stories with historical context, biographers can create a richer and more engaging narrative that captures the complexity and multifaceted nature of the individual’s life.

In addition, by considering various perspectives and sources of information, biographers can address potential biases or discrepancies in their account, resulting in a more reliable and credible portrayal of the subject.

This careful attention to detail and commitment to accuracy not only enhances the quality of the biography but also helps establish trust between the biographer and their readers.

Chronological Narration

Organizing a biography in a chronological manner is a highly effective approach, as it allows readers to follow the subject’s life events in a logical and coherent sequence.

By presenting the information in a linear fashion, the biographer enables readers to trace the subject’s journey from their early years to their later accomplishments, making it easier to understand the context and progression of their life.

To effectively arrange a chronological narrative, the biographer should begin by highlighting significant milestones and accomplishments in the subject’s life. These key events serve as anchor points in the story, helping to structure the narrative and maintain the reader’s interest.

By focusing on these pivotal moments, the biographer can illustrate the subject’s growth, development, and achievements over time, providing a clear and engaging overview of their life’s trajectory.

Contextualization

Contextualizing the subject within their historical and cultural framework is a crucial aspect of biographical writing, as it enables readers to gain a deeper understanding of the individual’s life, choices, and significance.

Embedding the subject within their historical context involves examining the political, social, and economic landscape of the time. This includes exploring major events, trends, and issues that affected the subject’s life and decisions, such as wars, social movements, technological advancements, or cultural shifts.

Additionally, considering the subject’s cultural context is essential for understanding their beliefs, values, and creative expression. This involves examining the artistic, intellectual, and philosophical currents of the time, which may have influenced the subject’s work, ideas, or relationships.

Moreover, contextualizing the subject within their historical and cultural framework can help to humanize them, revealing the complexities, contradictions, and struggles that are often inherent in the human experience.

This approach offers readers a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of the subject, allowing them to see the person as a product of their time and circumstances, rather than as an isolated figure.

Famous Biographies and Biographers

The life of samuel johnson, ll.d. by james boswell (1791).

“The Life of Samuel Johnson, LL.D.” is a biography of the English writer and literary critic Samuel Johnson, written by his friend and contemporary James Boswell. Published in 1791, it is often considered one of the greatest biographies in the English language and a pioneering work in the development of modern biography as a literary genre.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) was a prominent figure in 18th-century English literature, known for his wide-ranging knowledge, wit, and moral authority. He is best remembered for his dictionary, “A Dictionary of the English Language,” published in 1755, which became the standard English dictionary for over a century. He was also a prolific essayist, poet, and critic.

James Boswell (1740-1795) was a Scottish lawyer, diarist, and author who became friends with Johnson in 1763. Over the course of their friendship, Boswell made detailed notes of their conversations and observations, which he later used as the basis for his biography.

“The Life of Samuel Johnson, LL.D.” is a comprehensive and vivid portrait of Johnson’s life, character, and work. Boswell covers Johnson’s early years, education, and struggles with poverty and illness, as well as his rise to prominence as a writer and his involvement in the vibrant literary circles of 18th-century London.

The biography also delves into Johnson’s friendships and relationships, including his long association with Hester Thrale, a prominent society hostess, and writer.

What sets Boswell’s biography apart is his skill in capturing Johnson’s personality, wit, and conversation. By presenting Johnson’s thoughts and opinions on a wide range of topics, as well as anecdotes and reminiscences from those who knew him, Boswell creates a vivid and engaging portrait of his subject.

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks (2010)

“The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” is a non-fiction book written by Rebecca Skloot, published in 2010. The book tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, an African American woman whose cancer cells were taken without her knowledge or consent during a biopsy in 1951. These cells, known as HeLa cells, became the first immortal human cell line, reproducing indefinitely under laboratory conditions.

HeLa cells have been used extensively in medical research, contributing to significant scientific breakthroughs, such as the development of the polio vaccine, gene mapping, and cancer research.

Henrietta Lacks was a young mother of five when she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cervical cancer at the age of 31. She received treatment at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, where a sample of her cancerous tissue was taken without her knowledge. Henrietta passed away in 1951, but her cells continued to live on, revolutionizing medical research.

Rebecca Skloot spent more than a decade researching Henrietta Lacks’ life and the scientific history of HeLa cells. Skloot also interviewed Lacks’ surviving family members, who were unaware of Henrietta’s contribution to science until the 1970s.

The book explores the ethical issues surrounding the use of human tissue in research, the question of consent, and the lack of compensation for the Lacks family.

Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow (2004)

“Alexander Hamilton” is a comprehensive biography of the American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, written by historian and biographer Ron Chernow. Published in 2004, the book provides an in-depth look into Hamilton’s life, from his humble beginnings in the West Indies to his significant contributions as a statesman, economist, and influential figure in early American history.

Chernow’s biography delves into Hamilton’s early life as an orphan in the Caribbean, his immigration to the American colonies, and his education. It also explores his involvement in the American Revolutionary War, where he served as an aide to General George Washington and later as an artillery officer.

The book details Hamilton’s role in the development of the United States Constitution and his work as the first Secretary of the Treasury under President Washington, where he was instrumental in establishing the nation’s financial system.

“Alexander Hamilton” also examines Hamilton’s personal life, including his relationships, marriage, and infamous extramarital affair, as well as his longstanding political rivalries with figures such as Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and Aaron Burr. The biography concludes with the story of Hamilton’s tragic death in a duel with Burr in 1804.

It received critical acclaim and won several awards, including the George Washington Book Prize. The biography also inspired Lin-Manuel Miranda to create the hit Broadway musical “Hamilton,” which premiered in 2015 and went on to achieve widespread popularity and numerous accolades, further solidifying Alexander Hamilton’s place in popular culture and history.

Notable Biographies in Different Fields

Science and technology.

Biographies in the field of science and technology offer fascinating insights into the lives and minds of extraordinary individuals who have made significant advancements in their respective fields.

These biographies often provide an in-depth look at the personal and professional lives of scientists, inventors, engineers, and other innovators, highlighting their discoveries, inventions, and contributions to human knowledge and progress.

Arts and Literature

Biographies of artists, actors, and writers often provide captivating and inspiring accounts of the lives of these creative individuals. By examining their personal and professional journeys, these biographies allow readers to gain a deeper understanding of the inspirations, motivations, and challenges that have shaped their subjects’ artistic achievements.

These biographies often delve into the early lives of their subjects, exploring formative experiences that may have influenced their creative paths. They also examine the artistic processes and the development of the subjects’ distinctive styles, providing valuable insights into their creative methodologies, influences, and inspirations.

Sports and Athletics

Biographies of athletes provide riveting accounts of the lives and careers of remarkable individuals who have achieved greatness in the world of sports. These stories often serve as powerful sources of inspiration, showcasing the dedication, perseverance, and triumphs of athletes who have overcome obstacles and pushed the boundaries of human potential.

These biographies delve into the formative experiences of their subjects, exploring how early influences, innate talent, and personal motivations led them to pursue athletic excellence. They also provide insights into the rigorous training regimens, discipline, and sacrifices that athletes make to achieve their goals, highlighting the incredible determination and work ethic that underpin their success.

Additionally, biographies of athletes often touch on the personal challenges and setbacks these individuals have faced, such as injuries, controversies, or personal struggles.

Historical Figures

Biographies of historical figures offer a unique window into the lives, personalities, and experiences of individuals who have left lasting impacts on the world. By delving into the stories of these influential people, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the political, social, and cultural contexts that shaped their actions and decisions, as well as the lasting legacies they left behind.

These biographies often provide richly detailed accounts of their subjects’ lives, including their upbringing, education, relationships, and personal struggles. By exploring the complex facets of these individuals, biographies help to humanize historical figures, providing a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of their motivations, beliefs, and actions.

In addition to personal narratives, biographies of historical figures often weave together broader historical contexts and events. This allows readers to gain valuable insights into the social, political, and cultural forces that influenced their subjects’ lives and decisions.

Writing a Compelling Biography

A captivating biography requires more than just a simple retelling of a person’s life events. It delves into their personal experiences, relationships, and accomplishments, while maintaining an objective and authentic approach.

Being Objective and Authentic

An essential aspect of a well-written biography is its objectivity. The narrative should portray the real person, depicting their experiences and beliefs accurately.

While it can be tempting to embellish facts or minimize flaws, striving for authenticity is crucial in presenting a credible account. This involves thorough research and verification of facts, even when they contradict the author’s initial assumptions.

Authenticity also extends to the respectful portrayal of a subject’s relationships and exploration of their inner world, while avoiding speculation or gossip.

Balancing Personal and Public Life

When writing a biography, one must strike a balance between the subject’s personal and public life. This includes weaving together stories from their childhood, personal relationships, and major life events that may have shaped their character. The integration of both personal and public aspects contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of their vita.

However, careful consideration must be given to privacy concerns, and it is important to determine which aspects of the individual’s life are appropriate to disclose. Ultimately, the reader should gain insight into the person’s journey without feeling intrusive.

Creating Engaging Storylines

Just as in a novel, a great biography should feature engaging storylines that keep readers interested. This can be achieved by organizing the narrative around important events, challenges, and accomplishments that are relevant and compelling. To maintain a smooth flow, strategically transitioning between these key moments helps maintain reader interest.

The use of different perspectives, anecdotes, and historical context can also enhance the storyline. Paint vivid pictures of the settings, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the subject’s world. Furthermore, showcasing the subject’s resilience, growth, and impact, can contribute to a powerful and memorable biography.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can biographies be fictional or purely factual.

Biographies usually aim to present an accurate and factual representation of someone’s life. However, some authors might take creative liberties and incorporate fictionalized elements for dramatic or storytelling purposes.

It is crucial for readers to be aware of the author’s intentions and approach when reading such biographical works.

Can biographies be biased?

Biographies, like any form of writing, can be subject to biases depending on the author’s perspective, beliefs, or intentions.

It is essential for readers to critically evaluate biographies by considering factors such as the author’s credentials, potential biases, and the sources used in the research process.

By comparing multiple biographies on the same subject or cross-referencing with other sources, readers can develop a more comprehensive and balanced understanding of the individual’s life and achievements.

Are biographies always based on famous or historical figures?

While biographies often focus on famous or historical figures, they can also be written about lesser-known individuals with compelling stories or unique experiences.

These “everyday” biographies can provide valuable insights into the lives of ordinary people and the challenges they face, offering a broader understanding of the human experience and fostering empathy and connection among readers.

Are there any ethical considerations when writing a biography?

Yes, ethical considerations play a significant role in writing biographies.

Biographers must respect the privacy and dignity of their subjects, particularly when dealing with sensitive or personal information. They should also strive for accuracy and fairness, avoiding sensationalism or misrepresentation of facts.

Additionally, biographers should acknowledge and address any potential biases or conflicts of interest that may affect their portrayal of the subject.

Biographies offer us unparalleled access to the lives and legacies of remarkable individuals, spanning diverse genres and approaches.

From historical fiction to academic rigor, prophetic accounts to fictionalized narratives, biographies captivate our imagination and enrich our understanding of the human experience. These literary gems remind us that behind every great achievement lies a story of struggle, triumph, and unwavering determination.

So, let us continue to explore these remarkable journeys, as we delve deeper into the pages of history and the hearts of those who have shaped our world.

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Definition of bio

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Definition of bio-  (Entry 2 of 2)

Examples of bio in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'bio.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1947, in the meaning defined above

Dictionary Entries Near bio

Cite this entry.

“Bio.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bio. Accessed 12 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of bio-.

Combining form

from Greek bi-, bio- "life"

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Definition of 'biography'

biography in American English

Biography in british english, examples of 'biography' in a sentence biography, related word partners biography, trends of biography.

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More about mid.

• In its original sense, first recorded before 900.
• Shortening of the word middle .
• Comes from Middle English, Old English midd – (both an adjective and the initial element of a compound).
• Similar to Greek mésos , méssos , méttos , Latin medius , and Sanskrit madhya , “middle.”

EXAMPLES OF MID

• His attempt at a joke fell flat among his friends, who found it to be quite mid in terms of humor.
• The new smartphone model failed to impress users, who found its features to be rather mid .

self-effacing

tending to make oneself or one's actions inconspicuous, especially because of humility or timidity; modest.

Why Dictionary.com chose self-effacing

More about self-effacing.

• Comes from the noun  self-effacement , which was first recorded in 1865–70.
• Efface , meaning “to wipe out,” comes from the Middle French word effacer , dating back to 1480–90.
• Self was first recorded before 900.

EXAMPLES OF SELF-EFFACING

• The actor’s self-effacing humor endeared him to fans who appreciated his lack of arrogance.
• Her self-effacing demeanor made it difficult for others to praise her talents and skills openly.

to skip about, as in dancing or playing; frolic.

Why Dictionary.com chose gambol

More about gambol.

• First recorded around 1495–1505.
• Earlier forms included gambold , gambald , and gamba ( u ) de .
• Comes from Middle French gambade , a variant of gambado , “large protective boots or gaiters,” which originated in the Latin word for “leg.”

EXAMPLES OF GAMBOL

• After a long day of work, the friends decided to gambol on the beach, letting loose and enjoying the moment.
• The puppies would gambol around the yard, chasing each other with glee.

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Meaning of punch down in English

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• anathematize
• animadversion
• disapprobation
• let someone have both barrels idiom
• union-basher

Word of the Day

gyroscopically

with the use of a gyroscope (= a device containing a wheel that spins freely within a frame, used on aircraft, ships, etc. to help keep them horizontal)

Varied and diverse (Talking about differences, Part 1)

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