1. Classical Biography (5th century BC - 18th century AD):
- Emphasis on great individuals and their accomplishments.
- Aimed to inspire and provide moral lessons to readers.
- Notable examples: Plutarch's "Parallel Lives" and Suetonius' "The Twelve Caesars."
2. Romantic Biography (18th century - early 19th century):
- Focused on the emotional and psychological aspects of individuals' lives.
- Explored the personal struggles and inner thoughts of subjects.
- Emphasized the role of emotions and imagination.
- Notable examples: James Boswell's "Life of Samuel Johnson" and William Hazlitt's "On Shakespeare and Milton."
3. Realist Biography (mid-19th century - early 20th century):
- A shift towards objectivity and rigorous research in presenting subjects' lives.
- Employed historical methods to provide accurate accounts of events.
- Emphasized the social and political contexts shaping individuals' lives.
- Notable examples: Lytton Strachey's "Eminent Victorians" and Winston Churchill's "Marlborough: His Life and Times."
4. Modern Biography (mid-20th century - present):
- Multifaceted approach combining elements from previous phases.
- Acknowledges the role of subjectivity and interpretation in biographical writing.
- Employs a variety of sources and perspectives to construct narratives.
- Focus on the intersection of individual lives with cultural, social, and historical contexts.
- Notable examples: Robert Caro's "The Power Broker" and David McCullough's "John Adams."