Here are some key characteristics of a biography:
* Focuses on a single individual: The central subject is always a specific person.
* Chronological order: Biographies usually follow a timeline, narrating events in the order they happened.
* Factual information: They aim to be accurate and rely on research and verifiable sources.
* Comprehensive: Biographers try to capture the complexity of their subject, including their successes, failures, and personal relationships.
* Interpretive: Although based on facts, biographies often offer interpretations and analysis of the subject's life and actions.
Here are some examples of famous biographies:
* "The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin"
* "Steve Jobs" by Walter Isaacson
* "Unbroken" by Laura Hillenbrand
* "The Diary of Anne Frank"
Different types of biographies:
* Autobiography: Written by the person about their own life.
* Biography: Written by someone else about the subject's life.
* Memoir: Focuses on a specific period or aspect of the author's life, often with more personal reflection and interpretation.
* Collective biography: Tells the stories of multiple individuals, often sharing a common theme or experience.
Ultimately, biographies provide insights into the lives of individuals, helping us to understand their experiences, motivations, and impact on the world.