* Literary Commentary: This focuses on a literary work (poem, novel, play, etc.). It might explore themes, characters, symbolism, narrative techniques, historical context, or the author's intentions.
* News Commentary: This appears in newspapers, magazines, or online news sources. It offers analysis and opinion on current events, often presenting a specific viewpoint or perspective. It's distinct from straight news reporting, which aims for objectivity.
* Social Commentary: This critiques societal issues, norms, or behaviors. It can take many forms, including essays, satire, fiction, or even art. The goal is often to raise awareness or provoke change.
* Biblical Commentary: This interprets passages of the Bible, examining its historical context, literary style, theological implications, and relevance to contemporary life.
* Legal Commentary: This analyzes legal cases, statutes, or other legal documents, offering opinions on their interpretation and application.
Key characteristics of commentaries generally include:
* Analysis: They break down the subject matter, identifying key elements and their relationships.
* Interpretation: They offer a particular understanding or reading of the subject.
* Argumentation: They often present a thesis or argument supported by evidence and reasoning.
* Perspective: They reflect a particular viewpoint or bias, though striving for reasoned objectivity in some cases (like academic literary commentary).
* Contextualization: They often place the subject matter within its historical, social, or intellectual context.
In short, a commentary goes beyond simply summarizing or describing; it *explains* and *interprets*, offering a critical engagement with its subject.