Another genre, intellectual biography, forsakes the need for basic chronological structure and develops a narrative of a life through the conceptual analysis of the subject’s motives and beliefs within the world of ideas. Those who write intellectual biography have overcome the interpretive angst of other educational researchers, what Rollyson (2005) has deemed “the biographical apologia,” who include pages of interviewee narrative and rich description but who refrain from interpreting motives and feelings. In contrast, the intellectual biographer recognizes and accepts the invasive yet justifiable analysis and overcomes the intrusive nature of inquiry with care resulting in self-reflective thoughtfulness and insight.
A third form of biographical research is defined as life history writing (and the narrative study of lives) with strong allegiance to the social science research traditions of oral history and narrative discourse and, specifically, great devotion to theoretical constructs from sociology and psychology. Case study paradigms emerge as life history writers address issues of generalizability, social interaction-social structure, and reliability and validity as well as the biographical quest of any study of a life. This research genre has taken many forms in the field of education, perhaps resonating most in the area of teacher education with the narrative study of teachers’ lives scholarship and, to a lesser degree, with the first-year teacher research that also remains loyal to aspects of intellectual biography (Goodson, 2008; Bullough, 2008).
In recent years a fourth genre, memoir biography (still distinct from autobiography and memoir) has begun to appear in the field of curriculum studies. Attention is devoted to the researcher’s motives in relation to the biographical subject and with emphasis upon the stylistic presentation of the biographer’s reflections and insights in relation to the factual account of the life. An interpretive narrative of the writer, alongside the presentation of the biographical subject, becomes part of the research. A life story is being told, yet in relation to the transactional experiences of the biographer that in turn influences and foreshadows similar experiences for the reader.
A fifth type, narrative biography, represents a dynamic portrayal of a life without the need for absolute facticity or a comprehensive account from birth to grave. Neither is this style burdened by the ultimate interpretation of the subject that must be accepted by the reader. Facts are recognized and some interpretations are accepted as being more significant than others; however, the biographer, though consciously aware of his or her personal emotions and reactions to the subject, acknowledges that the telling of the story is primarily defined by the subject in relation to the reader.
No definitive listing of biographical types can ever be constructed since, fortunately, new forms—content and process oriented—are continually being conceived and explored. Other more content-related designations include feminist biography (Alpern, et al., 1992; Ascher, et. al., 1984; Wagner-Martin, 1994) and black biography (Backscheider, 1997), all with emphasis upon identity and the restoration of the “invisible” subject.
Biography’s relationship to autobiography, memoir, and narrative research in education is well developed and will continually be redefined (Denzin, 1989; Epstein, 1991; Rollyson, 2008) Yet, with the emerging interest in biographical inquiry and with some growing interest in prosopography (group biography), little consensus of terminology exists; for example, it should be noted that while some qualitative researchers view the term as accurate, there are dramatic differences between biography and autobiography—much more than any slash or solidus can convey.
Alpern, S., Antler, J., Perry, E. I. & Scobie, I. W. (Eds.) (1992). . Urbana, Illinois: University of Illinois Press.
Ascher, C., DeSalvo, L., & Ruddick, S. (Eds.) (1984). . Boston: Beacon Press.
Backscheider, P. R. (1997). . New York: Oxford University Press.
Bullough, R. V., Jr. (2008). . Albany, NY: SUNY Press.
Denzin, N. (1989). . Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.
Epstein, W. (Ed.) (1991). . West Lafayette, IN: Purdue University Press.
Garraty, J. (1957). . New York: Knopf.
Goodson, I. (2008). . Rotterdam: Sense Publishers.
Josselson, R. & Lieblich, A. (Eds.) (1993). . Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.
Oates, S. B. (Ed.) (1986). . Amherst, MA: University of Massachusetts Press.
Roberts, B. (2002). . London: Open University Press.
Rollyson, C. (2008). . Chicago: Ivan R. Dee.
Rollyson, C. (2005). Chicago: Ivan R. Dee.
Wagner-Martin, L. (1994). . New Brunswick: Rutgers University Press.
By Craig Kridel, University of South Carolina
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
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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:
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:
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:
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:
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:
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.
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.
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.
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” 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” 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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Biography narrative essay generator.
If you were given a chance to write a person’s biography, would you take that opportunity? A lot of people may see this as a good type of job to get into, while others may see this as a hobby. However you want to see it, it really is a good opportunity. Better yet, what if you are given the chance to write your own autobiography? A lot of people would take that as a chance to show their readers or the rest of the world who they are and what they can do. Of course, it is not always for everyone either. When we think of narratives we often think of the length of either an essay , a story or a speech.
But we do not often think that even a biography could be part of that idea. Often than not, we mistake biography and autobiography so much that we think they mean the same thing but with different spelling. Firstly, they are different and they do mean different things. But what does a biography narrative essay mean and what can it do for you? To find out what it can do for you, check out 10+ examples of a biography narrative essay.
1. biography narrative essay.
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We know that a biography and an autobiography are two different things, what we do not often hear is that a biography can also be used in a narrative essay . So what is a biography narrative essay ? This is a kind of narrative essay that you write when you are talking or writing about a person’s life story. This kind of essay focuses on you as the writer telling a story about a famous person like an author of a story, a poet or even an athlete. Of course you can also be writing an autobiography narrative essay, and it works just the same. The only difference is that you are writing your own story to let the world know who you are as a person.
In addition to that, you can also be writing about cultural biographies and they would work the same as you may write with a narrative essay. As long as you know what you are writing about and the difference between a biography and an autobiography. The importance of a biography narrative essay is to tell a story. To be able to tell the life story of a person you may or may not have met. As well as to be able to share it in the form of an essay.
Having the opportunity to write a biography narrative essay is fun and exciting, but there are also things you should know about it. One of which is how and the other is why. Since we already know the reason, it is time we learned the ways to write it .
Take some time to do your personal research first. Before you make your biography narrative essay, find time on who you are planning on talking about. Whether this person is alive or deceased also matters. To be able to make a good narrative essay from their lives, you must at least know or understand even a bit of information about them.
Getting permission from the person you are planning on writing a biography essay is also best and professional. It not only puts you in a good light, but it also shows that you take their word at heart. Asking for permission shows that you understand their need for privacy as well as the fact that you show them respect. It never hurts anyone to ask permission to whom they plan on writing a biography about.
To make your biography narrative essay a success, draft a short timeline before you write. This timeline could be about the events of the life of the person you are going to be writing or your own if you plan to write an autobiography. Also, drafting your work before finalizing it would make it easier for you to see which should be placed and which should be disregarded.
When you have finished writing the draft and you are sure that it is enough and okay, you can start by rewriting your essay and finalizing everything. Of course this would take time, but it is really worth rewriting if you need to check everything first. As well as finalizing everything means you have to check if the information is correct, your grammar and spelling are fine too.
To be sure that you got it right, the best way to do so is to read your biography narrative essay. To make sure that the tone is right, the way you are presenting it as well. Ask someone for help to be sure that how you deliver is presentable and professional. As well as using the words in your essay that would be easy to say and explain.
A biography narrative essay is a kind of essay that is based on you writing someone’s story. An essay that focuses on a person’s life story being written down by someone else and to present it to class.
Asking for permission is not only polite, but it also gives you a chance to see if the person wants their story known. It is also a good way for you to avoid plagiarism by having the permission from the person, rather than just to write about them and pass it off as if it were nothing.
Writing a biography narrative, avoid any fabrications and plagiarism. To avoid this kind of mistake, do not fabricate their work and pass it as yours. Avoid fabricating anything they may say and change it to something more interesting.
Having the opportunity to write biographies for famous people is what others can say is a dream come true. A lot of people would even take the opportunity to write their own autobiographies and share it to the world. Whether you plan on writing a biography or an autobiography, there should always be things you should take into consideration. Always remember that when writing these kinds of essays, fabricating it will never get you anywhere.
Text prompt
Write a Biography Narrative Essay on the life and achievements of Marie Curie.
Create a Biography Narrative Essay about the contributions of Martin Luther King Jr. to civil rights.
Jon zamboni.
A narrative essay provides a narrative, or story, to its reader, while a biographical essay describes the life of another person. When you write a biographical narrative essay, you are telling the story of another person's life. Before you begin writing, decide what aspects of a person's life you want to explore, and what examples you will use to explore them.
The first and most important decision you must make when writing your essay is who you will focus on. Your subject could be a member of your family, a friend, or even a historical figure. Keep in mind, however, that the less you know about this person, the less you will know about their feelings and motivations. If you're writing about someone you know well, ask them questions. Pick an aspect of that person's life to focus on. To make your essay as interesting as possible, chose a time in that person's life that shows change or growth. For example, if you were writing about your older sister, you could focus on a time when she was fighting with your parents, and how they eventually started to get along again.
Once you've picked the person on whom you want to focus and the story you want to explore, choose events that you will use to tell your story . Find three or four times in your subject's life that illustrate the struggle or growth that you're writing about. These could be as simple as small conversations you've had with that person, or as dramatic as a mental breakdown. When you pick an event, think about how you will use it to show change in your subject. This is especially important if you are writing about a historical figure, since you will only have events, and not your personal impressions, to analyze. On the other hand, say you are writing about your sister's contentious relationship with your parents. Perhaps you noticed that for a long time she simply avoided talking to them, but when she turned 16 they started having loud, drawn-out fights. Even if you don't think this is a positive change, you could use it to show how your sister had changed, and was now able to confront your parents.
Now that you know the major events you want to concentrate on, use them to figure out your essay's structure. Your essay should begin with a paragraph or two providing background for your story. Describe the person you are writing about, and the setting of your story. Where did they live? What sort of things did they enjoy? What kind of relationship do you have with them, if any? The bulk of your paper will be the three or four events that you have chosen. Place these in chronological order -- that is, in the order in which they happened. This will give your reader a sense of progression over time. Finally, include a couple paragraphs at the end of your essay to provide conclusion to your story. Tie up any unaddressed details in these paragraphs, and provide a description of your subject, showing how he has changed.
With your structure, you can put pen to paper and write your essay. A narrative essay should include descriptive, concrete details . For example, if you are writing a scene in a park, you could describe whether it was sunny or rainy, what color the trees were, whether birds were chirping. These details will make your story feel more grounded, and allow your reader to feel closer to the physical events you're describing. Use longer descriptions in place of vague statements. For example, instead of writing "It was dark outside," you might use "She couldn't see 2 feet in front of her."
Once you've written a draft of your essay, go back and edit it. Check for spelling, grammar and run-on sentences. Replace vague descriptions with details. Remove repetitive sentences, and expand any sections that feel too short. Finally, check whether your concluding paragraphs address the central point of your story, and tie up any loose ends.
Jon Zamboni began writing professionally in 2010. He has previously written for The Spiritual Herald, an urban health care and religious issues newspaper based in New York City, and online music magazine eBurban. Zamboni has a Bachelor of Arts in religious studies from Wesleyan University.
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After lala kent faced considerable backlash for her comments made toward her child-free cast mates during the vanderpump rules season 11 reunion, meredith clark asks whether we should expect anything more from a cast that notoriously skirts responsibility.
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“Scandoval,” the quippy nickname given to one of the most shocking infidelity scandals on reality television, catapulted Bravo ’s Vanderpump Rules into newfound fame last year. The show, which aired on the network in 2013, initially followed a group of broke, incestuous bartenders and servers working at the sexy and unique West Hollywood restaurant, SUR. The high-stakes drama and record viewership of season 10 even scored Bravo its first Emmy nomination for Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program. And while dedicated fans of Vanderpump Rules – those who had long professed to critics, “No, the point is that they’re all bad people!” – finally felt some validation, it soon turned sour when they realized that there wasn’t much else to hold onto upon watching its latest season.
Season 11, which wrapped up its three-part reunion on May 28, overwhelmingly put a bad taste in viewers’ mouths, so much so that Bravo put production on “pause” for the foreseeable future. Throughout the season, fans were initially annoyed by the cast’s easy-to-forgive sentiments toward Tom Sandoval, who had cheated on his long-time partner Ariana Madix with fellow cast member Rachel Leviss. But what had really angered viewers (namely, those who have children) during the final reunion episode were comments made by the show’s voice of reason, Lala Kent.
“There is something that Lala did tonight that I will never, ever be able to understand, especially as a mom,” began TikTok user Erika Bazaldua Holland , in a viral video with more than 775,000 views. “You do not get to use your children as a weapon to make other people feel bad about their decisions.”
In the episode, the 33-year-old expressed her frustrations with her fellow cast members for their lack of authenticity while filming, and how nobody “stepped up to the f***ing plate” during the season – intentionally breaking the sacred fourth wall.
“If you don’t give a f*** about your position on the show because you’re thriving, I’m gonna need you to give a f*** about mine,” Lala told her co-stars, as she explained how her Bravo paycheck (and her profitable “Send It to Darrell” sweatshirts ) are used to help support her three-year-old daughter as a single mom.
There’s no denying that Lala – real name Lauren Elyse Burningham – has faced her fair share of injustices during her tenure on Vanderpump Rules , which began when she joined the show in season four at 22 years old. Her former fiancée, disgraced Hollywood producer Randall Emmett , was exposed to be dating a 23-year-old the same month their daughter Ocean was born in March 2021. While she’s happily welcoming another daughter in September via sperm donor, Lala’s bitter custody battle continues to rage on, as she’s been given the major stipulation from her ex not to feature their daughter on the show.
However, according to Vanderpump Rules fans, that doesn’t give her the right to hold her cast members accountable for decisions she made as a mother.
“Everything Lala has done, any mistakes, any bad behavior, and her need to make money off the show is okay because she is a mom,” wrote one viewer on the widely-popular (and snarky) Vanderpump Rules subreddit page. “I understand being a mom is hard, but being a person is hard too and the hypocrisy is not okay simply because she has a daughter and Ariana doesn’t.”
“Lala’s need to provide for her kids is not everyone else’s responsibility. I don’t understand why she is putting that on everyone else,” another TikTok commenter agreed.
The Bravo network – helmed by its larger-than-life figurehead and executive producer , Andy Cohen – has earned its place at the top of pop culture lexicon for amplifying the real-life stories of women and mothers. Ever since the first episode of The Real Housewives of Orange County aired in 2006, cameras have captured tear-jerker moments like Vicki Gunvalson collapsing on the floor when her own mother died, Jacqueline Laurita advocating for autism awareness through her son’s diagnosis, and the emotional reunion between Teresa Guidice and her four daughters after she returned home from a 12-month stint in prison.
These dynamic storylines from real-life mothers have always struck a chord with Bravo’s majority female viewership. So what is it about Lala’s non-traditional relationship to motherhood that has made fans turn against her?
Josh Lora , who is a market research professional by day, has become a notable TikTok presence for his breakdowns on the intersections of Bravo and sociology. For him, it’s not that Vanderpump Rules viewers don’t want to see authentic stories about motherhood existing on a show that’s mainly known for drunken hookups and cheating scandals. Really, it’s that by guilt tripping your fellow cast members (who are, essentially, your co-workers) for not sticking by the reality TV playbook, it absolves you of all accountability.
“Lala saying: ‘Well, I’m only here to feed my kid,’ it turns so many people off,” Lora told The Independent. “It’s this interesting tension between needing the fourth wall to captivate us and draw us in, versus seeing the actual bare bones mechanics of filming the show and contract renewals and all of this stuff that we ostensibly care about. But it actually really soured us on everyone and everything involved.”
For the majority of Vanderpump Rules viewers – adults between the ages of 18 and 49 – the idea of admonishing your child free co-workers for not meeting a certain deadline at work or failing to contribute to a presentation, and then accusing them of jeopardizing your livelihood as a parent, seems entirely unthinkable.
“We are all adults, we all have jobs. I don’t think it’s anyone’s responsibility to provide for someone else’s kid. Lala is trying to get them to care more about her child than they should,” said Lora. “At the end of the day, yes they’re friends, but they’re also co-workers. So using the argument: ‘You have to do this because I have to feed my child,’ isn’t necessarily the most salient [rationalization].”
When Holland posted her viral TikTok video, sharing her thoughts about the Vanderpump Rules part three reunion, it wasn’t to stir the proverbial pot or to stoke some online controversy. It was because, for perhaps the first time ever as an avid Vanderpump Rules watcher, the show made her contemplate her own position as a new mother herself.
“As moms, we watch Bravo and we take on a new perspective. I certainly have a new perspective watching Bravo as a mom at 32 than I did when I was single and 30. We cannot expect other people to come at this with the same force that we do as moms,” Holland told The Independent . “Being a mom is the best part of my life, and Lala would say the same thing. But to then put that responsibility on somebody else is just not appropriate.”
Of course, it’s easy to assume that the Give Them Lala Beauty founder’s passionate remarks to her co-stars were made out of frustration with her own unfortunate situation. Much like Ariana, Lala – who was 19 years younger than her ex-fiancé – was also the victim of an infidelity scandal. However, unlike Ariana, she didn’t receive a sponsorship deal with Duracell, appear on Dancing with the Stars , and make her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart in Chicago over it. Even Lala herself said it in the season 11 finale of Vanderpump Rules: “I have never experienced someone who gets cheated on and suddenly she becomes God.”
For Holland, who has chosen to give the single mother the benefit of the doubt, she perceived Lala’s widely criticized comments about motherhood as rather the “peak of her projection” in that moment.
“The conversation about motherhood is a very personal one. You see the chords that are hit with Lala and Scheana [Shay]. Their kids are their Achilles heel, and it should be,” she said. “But I think what we saw from them is that a lot of their motivation is driven from a place of love, but also a place of fear.”
Following the negative response to the Vanderpump Rules reunion, Lala took to her podcast, titled Give Them Lala , to clear up some of the misconceptions surrounding her behavior towards her castmates (and her fans) this season. During the podcast episode, which aired on May 29, Lala admitted that filming season 11 was “bittersweet” and watching the episodes back was “one of the most difficult things” she’s had to do.
While she initially dedicated episodes of her podcast toward recapping Vanderpump Rules as it aired, she explained that she had to hit pause on the coverage due to fans on social media “coming for her” as a parent.
“I feel that me as a mother is completely off-limits. And when I see people talking about something they know nothing about, my blood starts to boil,” Lala said. While she admitted that both the cast and viewers may not always “be in alignment” about what occurred on the show this season, she still acknowledged how fans of Vanderpump Rules are the reason for her success.
“This show is something I am extremely grateful for. It has allowed me to live a life that I really would sit at home in Utah and dream about. I love making this show,” Lala continued. “The opportunities that have come along with it. It’s not lost on me that the show got me the opportunities, but not only the show, you guys watching the show, you tuning in, you giving a s*** about the show. I am able to provide a beautiful life for not only myself but my family because of you guys.”
Lala’s representatives did not immediately respond to The Independent’s request for comment.
Was this a semblance of the accountability that fans were craving from Lala? Maybe so. Despite her supposed apology, however, the future of Vanderpump Rules remains uncertain. Even the final episode of season 11 was perceived by viewers as a farewell tribute to the show, in which the last five minutes included an emotional montage set to a piano ballad.
Indeed, Lora pointed out that the original premise of Vanderpump Rules was to document young adults “trapped in this arrested development,” and many of them still are – from messy breakups to struggling businesses. That doesn’t mean that some Vanderpump Rules viewers aren’t interested in watching its stars navigate the difficulties of motherhood as well. In fact, that’s partly why fans tune in to Bravo’s extensive Real Housewives franchise in the first place.
But on a show like Vanderpump Rules, where taking accountability for one’s actions is a rare occurrance (Jax Taylor, anyone?), perhaps we should be expecting exactly that from even the most self-proclaimed “grown” of its cast members.
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In Part 1 of our discussion on the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, we welcome editor Joshua Bennett to discuss Douglass's Narrative as a type of hero's journey, Douglass's political project in writing the book, and how Douglass closes the Narrative with a statement on true Christianity. Joshua Bennett is a professor of literature at MIT. He is the author of five books of poetry, criticism, and narrative non-fiction, including The Sobbing School and Being Property Once Myself.To l...
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Image of The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano book cover.
The Significance of The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano
My focus for the early modern period is Equiano's narrative, The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano . It was published in 1789, and Equiano was his own publisher. Also, British abolitionists, such as Hannah More, Josiah Wedgwood, and John Wesley, helped him publish his book. They helped collect evidence on the harsh treatment slaves went through and more (Luebering). The narrative is about his experiences as a former African slave. It is significant because it was a pivotal text in the abolitionist movement. It highlighted the harsh and cruel treatment of the transatlantic slave trade. It also challenged other ideas that people had, such as racist ideas and more. It contributed to the bigger belief in human rights and equality.
Image of a printing press and a composing stick from the first edition (1768–71) of the Encyclopedia Britannica, vol. 3, plate CXLVII, figure 1.
Printing Method and Production
The narrative was printed using hand letterpress. This method was made by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century. This invention revolutionized book production. His book was manually written by scribes using this tool. Regarding the use of the tool, one arranges individual metal-type characters, punctuation markers, and spaces in a composing stick to form lines of text. It requires skills and accuracy to ensure they have the correct formatting. Then it was transferred to a frame, also known as a chase, and tightly secured to ensure it stayed in place during printing. The ink was applied to the surface, either by ink balls or rollers. Then the inked type was pressed against the paper using this tool. Repeat this process until you finish. Lastly, the pages needed to dry, and be adjusted for the final product. It is labor-intensive but can create numerous books (Lehmann-Haupt).
An image of captive Africans being transferred to ships along the Slave Coast for the transatlantic slave trade.
Equiano’s Strategies and Influence
In the source, “Colonialism, Biblical World-Making, and Temporalities in Olaudah Equiano’s Interesting Narrative,” Johnson explores how Equiano strategically challenged colonial efforts and Christian narratives, to abolish slavery (Johnson 1011). Equiano lived in London and had to be discreet about his true motives. It is because it was published at a time when people and laws supported colonial and slavery efforts. Also, he was a slave, so he had to be more careful. There would have been more and worse punishments if he was caught. So, he framed his argument in the context of human rights and Christianity to gain support from his readers. He framed it in terms of human rights, arguing that everyone deserves equal rights (morally and ethically correct.) He framed it in Christianity to further appeal to the moral aspects in his reader's minds. Christianity is all about equality and justice, therefore making slavery look terrible. This strategy successfully influenced public opinion and gained support for abolition. The success is also seen with its nine editions and transition to a single volume to reach more people (Johnson 1003). His narrative played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and fostering political activism in the late 18th century (Johnson 1023).
Equiano’s Book Tour and Public Engagement
There are many ways Equiano spread his book. One way Equiano spread his ideas of ending slavery was through book tours. According to “The Other Interesting Narrative: Olaudah Equiano’s Public Book Tour,” Equiano's book tour from 1789 to 1794 was a huge accomplishment in British history. It was the first modern-style author tour (Bugg 1424). He signed and sold copies at different places, which wasn't common during this time. Also, since it was in person, he could engage with the working-class communities to get their support. The source cites that this was an effective tactic because his book became one of the best-selling in the early 1790s (Bugg 1428).
Another way it reached many people was through advertisements and public and private correspondence, further helping his narrative to go global (Bugg 1426).
The Atlantic slave trade was part of a profitable network of commerce across the Atlantic Ocean. Goods and enslaved people were traded between Europe, Africa, and the Americas. This network is often called the triangular trade because it had three basic stages that roughly form the shape of a triangle when viewed on a map.
Equiano’s Impact
The technology and printed press helped spread Equiano’s narrative globally. It significantly impacted the print culture and book history of his time. He reached many people and helped spread political activism. His autobiography played a significant role in shaping print culture.
The print culture during this time helped advance many causes, such as political and social. As seen with Equiano, his abolitionist literature played a crucial role. It helped the movement by showing many of the horrors of slavery and advocating for its abolition.
Also, this widespread publication and translation highlight the growing influence of print culture during this time. Equiano's narrative was able to reach many, which was something that was not possible before.
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We got a first glimpse at the new Life is Strange game at today’s Xbox Showcase. Life is Strange: Double Exposure brings the return of fan-favorite character, Max Caulfield, as she seeks to solve the mystery of her friend’s untimely death.
The twist is that she experiences that death in one timeline, and her unusual powers allow her to transition into one where the murder didn’t happen, leaving her to try and figure out what happened, and somehow prevent the death in the first place in both timelines.
The new game comes to us courtesy of Square Enix and Deck Nine Games, and is targeting release on Xbox Series X/S and PC on October 29.
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Alicia vikander, jude law on how ‘firebrand’ works to “steal back the narrative” from henry viii to katherine parr.
Karim Aïnouz directed the film that focuses on the final chapter of the infamous king's life.
By Christy Piña
Associate Editor
Alicia Vikander and Jude Law came out to Tribeca Festival on Tuesday night for the premiere of their upcoming film, Firebrand .
The new take on Henry VIII’s life and his six wives focuses on his final spouse, Katherine Parr , who is named regent while the king battles abroad. When he returns ill and paranoid, and his court works to turn him against Katherine, she finds herself fighting for her survival.
Rosario dawson, jesse williams, aloe blacc among harry belafonte voices for social justice award recipients, 'inside out 2' makes hollywood debut, tribeca festival takes over nyc and this week's best events.
“Then also the very simple fact that [Aïnouz] shifted the focus onto Katherine,” the Oscar-nominated actor told The Hollywood Reporter. “So, Henry was a player in a story about a great woman. He’s dominated the narrative of these six women for 500 years, and it was trying to steal back the narrative a little bit and have him be a supporting role to his wife’s story.”
Vikander, taking on the role of Katherine, revealed that she was embarrassed to admit she didn’t know more about the final wife of the king besides just that.
“She was actually one of the first women to ever be published under her own name,” The Danish Girl Oscar winner told THR . “She was obviously a survivor of Henry VIII, and she outlived him. She was a woman that I just felt it’s important that we tell her story.”
Firebrand reunited Law and Vikander for the first time since they worked together on Anna Karenina , which was the Swedish actress’ first English-language film. They looked back on their time on both sets fondly, with the Tomb Raider star sharing that the Fantastic Beasts actor “gave me confidence” on the 2012 film.
“We got along very well then,” Law said of his working relationship with his co-star. “We struck a chord really quickly, and I think we both felt very safe very, very quickly. And we both had a desire to push the boundaries [with Firebrand ], feel safe and really get something out of this. She was a really great partner to work with.”
The Brazilian director also noted he loved the fact that both characters were so strong and “bigger than life,” which he found exciting. He was especially proud of how the two actors took on the roles of his Katherine and Henry.
“It was a dream,” Aïnouz told THR. “I think that there was something about the way that Alicia brings mystery to this character that I think is so important. [Katherine Parr was] always navigating a way to sort of be alive. And I think with Jude, there was something very warm. It’s very interesting to have an actor play a guy that was such a villain but still bring warmth and complexity to it.”
Firebrand hits theaters June 14.
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Alicia vikander, jude law talk surprising ending of henry viii movie ‘firebrand’, box office: ‘inside out 2’ heading for historic $140m-$150m u.s. opening, a near-record for pixar, china’s leading lights look to shine across the shanghai film fest’s main competitions, shanghai: director rolf de heer on joining competition jury, seeking “new worlds to explore” in cinema, ‘outstanding: a comedy revolution’ review: trailblazing queer comics get their due in entertaining netflix doc, luc besson’s ‘dogman’ kicks off 2024 transylvanian film festival.
A white woman on a black vacation, i learned a lot about race—and life—in an uncomfortable but incredible place..
Posted June 14, 2024 | Reviewed by Tyler Woods
I’ve had a hard crush on Stevie Wonder since forever. As a pre-pubescent teen , I penned my lifetime one-and-only fan letter. “I’m sorry you won’t be able to read this, but…” That was over 40 years ago. Closer to 50 (let’s be honest).
Early last year, I asked Alexa about Stevie. “Ziggy (my gender -neutral echo’s name), play Stevie Wonder from 1974.” Riding the wave of smooth, synthed, can’t-help-but-move “You Haven’t Done Nothin’” and “Boogie On Reggae Woman,” I absently googled if Stevie was performing anywhere. A one-week, Caribbean, all-inclusive, Black resort vacation sprung up. Curious, I clicked. “SOLD OUT SOLD OUT SOLD OUT” the screen blared. I turned away, back to work.
Then, I found myself back on the webpage. Trip profits benefitted Historically Black College and University (HBCU) scholarships. I filled out an online form to be notified of cancellations, telling myself to let it go. Days later, I hadn’t received so much as a robo-email acknowledging my inquiry. I gnawed thoughts about the trip like my tongue on a rough edge of a tooth.
I’d seen a phone number on that website, hadn’t I?
I called it. They won’t answer, I told myself. And if they do, the trip is sold out . If there’s room, and this works, I can consider it. If not, time to let go.
A southern-accented woman answered the first ring.
“Are there openings for the trip?” I blurted. “And is Stevie really playing?”
“Yes, there are. And he certainly is!”
I was nervous, going alone. I texted close friends and family, all white. They giggled. “I can’t believe you’re doing this!" they effused, “And good for you!” Then they declined to join. My daughters couldn’t leave work, and thought this was cultural appropriation (they had a point). My son-in-law, who is Black, needed to cover someone else’s vacation. I’d feel safer going with him, I admitted.
I exchanged several calls with the woman from the website. I was a pain in the proverbial tuchus, but she seemed unconcerned. I needed a balcony, for fresh air. I wanted to be higher up, for quiet. I’m old, privileged, white; even if I don’t always feel white, because I’m Jewish. I pass, and my privilege is evident every time I walk into an upper-crust boutique, trending Portland café, airport, or classroom. Especially living in what is still known as the whitest city in America. I packed plenty of sunscreen, knowing it would be a commodity most wouldn’t need.
The hotel lobby buzzed, a packed sea of chatting, animated, vacation-ready people in loose, colorful clothes. None of them white. I stopped, reaching for my phone like some security blanket, snapping a photo and texting my daughters. “I’m afraid I shouldn’t be doing this and it’s totally not cultural humility,” I wrote. They didn’t respond.
You knew it would be like this, I told myself. Duh! This exact experience and even your discomfort right now are a big reason you are here. Breathe.
I grew up in America. As a preschooler, my father worked on civil rights in the Jewish community, but my mom, professing equality, anxiously insisted, “Lock your doors!” when we drove through inner-city neighborhoods.
A woman behind me in the lobby smiled. “Where are you from?” she asked. My shoulders relaxed as we chatted. At the first meal, I smiled when people caught my eye. Most smiled back. Some averted their gaze.
Oh shit, I thought. Just by being here, I’m triggering. So not okay. What made me think I could—
Or maybe some people aren’t smiley?
Or maybe the people that are smiling are reflexively trying to avoid trouble—prioritizing my white comfort over their own?
I considered not meeting peoples’ gaze, looking down, going invisible (not so difficult for a 60+ -year-old female in America), but I forced myself. Just try, I thought. This is so not about you. Be a good ally: respectful, humble, supportive.
As I bound up and down stairs, everyone piped “Good morning!” or “Hi!” to the point I began doing it too. I worried people’s friendliness came as reflex—my skin a beacon to provoke best behavior. The thought sickened. Then I noticed everyone greeting everyone, everywhere, like friends or family—the pool, the bar, the lobby, the paths. Maybe Black people are just nicer. Definitely more direct. What a pleasure, I caught myself thinking. Then: There it is, systemic, internalized racism : “Maybe Black people are…” As if Black people are any one thing, a monolith. No.
“If only we could be this nice and friendly to everyone, all the time,” one person posted on the Facebook page dedicated to this trip. Friendliness was up a notch for everyone—we were on vacation, after all. But it felt warmer, more intimate than trips I’d been on with hegemonic white groups—resorts, business, tours—anything.
“Is someone sitting here?” several people asked at meals, seeing me alone. One was an HBCU administrator. Another, the husband of a C-suite executive. All around, it felt normal to be curious. “Can I ask why you came?” a few asked, their directness a relaxing relief.
“I came for Stevie,” I admitted. “And to support HBCUs.” Loving Stevie seemed universal. No one so much as intimated it was inappropriate I chose to be there; but maybe they were privileging my comfort. “Everyone is so warm,” I’d say. “Except, maybe I’m imagining, but some avert their eyes—”
“That’s on them,” my meal mates suggested.
“I want to be respectful though,” I insisted. “I don’t want to trigger people by being here. If that’s the case, I shouldn’t have come.”
I tried not to expect appeasement or reassurance—white fragility is exactly that, wanting to be told what’s most comfortable for me. I wanted the truth.
And then, toward the end of the week, Stevie.
I joined a line outside the venue hours early, at least a hundred people ahead of me. I brought a book but never cracked it, talking instead to a pharmacist about empowering patients with chronic illness . When the doors opened, I strode to the fourth row, inner aisle, close enough to see Stevie, right down to his shoes and socks.
He strode onstage arm-in-arm with his assistant and stood, wearing a bright red suit with a rainbow appliqued on the back, the crowd roaring with pleasure. Silent, he sat down, playing the intro to “Close Your Eyes,” dancing his hands over the keys. Quietly, he spoke. “I love you,” he said softly, then began to sing.
“Family,” he said mid-set, “we don’t have much time together, so we have some decisions to make. Do you want me to play the song that starts like this—?” he riffed a couple notes of “You and I,” teasing and laughing . “Or this—” he played the first phrase of “Ribbon in the Sky.”
“Ok, here’s what we’re going to do,” he grinned. “I like to keep it fair. We’ll do a little bit of ‘You and I’ and a little’ bit of ‘Ribbon in the Sky.’ Because you can’t always have it all the way you want. You have a debate you want to be in? Then you should get up and vote! Ya feel me?” He launched into his number.
We heard “Signed, Sealed, Delivered,” “ Superstition ,” “Sir Duke,” “Higher Ground,” “Hotter than July,” “Overjoyed,” and so much more.
“We can’t put it in the hands of fate,” he paused. “You can put it in the hands of faith, but you can’t put it in the hands of fate. If we want change for the good, for everybody, then we do it. I say to my kids, ‘I know you’ve been taught to “put it in God’s hands.” But you know what? God has given you hands. Use your hands to make a difference…' You feeling it?”
We were. We roared.
“Then I’ll tell you I love you, and let’s get this thing together!” he yelled. “Put your hands together and clap. Put your hands together and clap!” He guided women and men to sing alternate lines of “If You Really Love Me,” laughing at the intimacy he’d created. He dedicated a song to Tina Turner “and her greatness,” as she had just died, and promised every penny of his proceeds would be sent to HBCUs. “Are y’all good?” he asked. We were.
Way too soon, it was over.
I miss it. All of it. And yes, I do love you, Stevie. Thank you for stretching me, throughout my life. Forgive me for gatecrashing; I hope I did a creditable, respectful job. I will take the memories and lessons with me, forever.
Signed, sealed, delivered: I’m yours.
Diane Solomon is an adjunct professor at OHSU and has served as a leader on the Boards of Nurse Practitioners of Oregon, the Oregon Wellness Program, the Oregon Nurses Association, The Jewish Federation of Greater Portland, and many others.
At any moment, someone’s aggravating behavior or our own bad luck can set us off on an emotional spiral that threatens to derail our entire day. Here’s how we can face our triggers with less reactivity so that we can get on with our lives.
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biography, form of literature, commonly considered nonfictional, the subject of which is the life of an individual.One of the oldest forms of literary expression, it seeks to re-create in words the life of a human being—as understood from the historical or personal perspective of the author—by drawing upon all available evidence, including that retained in memory as well as written, oral ...
Biography, autobiography, and memoir are the three main forms used to tell the story of a person's life. Though there are similarities between these forms, they have distinct differences in terms of the writing, style, and purpose. A biography is an informational narrative and account of the life history of an individual person, written by someone who is not the subject of the biography.
A biography (BYE-og-ruh-fee) is a written account of one person's life authored by another person. A biography includes all pertinent details from the subject's life, typically arranged in a chronological order. The word biography stems from the Latin biographia, which succinctly explains the word's definition: bios = "life" + graphia ...
A biography is a story of a person's life, written by another author. The writer of a biography is called a biographer while the person written about is known as the subject or biographee. Biographies usually take the form of a narrative, proceeding chronologically through the stages of a person's life. American author Cynthia Ozick notes in ...
Literary biography. A literary biography is the biographical exploration of individuals' lives merging historical facts with the conventions of narrative. Biographies about artists and writers are sometimes some of the most complicated forms of biography. Not only does the author of the biography have to write about the subject of the biography but also must incorporate discussion of the ...
Definition of Biography. A biography is a description of a real person's life, including factual details as well as stories from the person's life. Biographies usually include information about the subject's personality and motivations, and other kinds of intimate details excluded in a general overview or profile of a person's life.
biography, Form of nonfictional literature whose subject is the life of an individual.The earliest biographical writings probably were funeral speeches and inscriptions. The origins of modern biography lie with Plutarch's moralizing lives of prominent Greeks and Romans and Suetonius's gossipy lives of the Caesars. Few biographies of common individuals were written until the 16th century.
A biography, or simply bio, is a detailed description of a person's life. It involves more than just basic facts like education, work, relationships, and death; it portrays a person's experience of these life events. ... The information can come from "oral history, personal narrative, biography and autobiography" or "diaries, letters, memoranda ...
How do you know if your work is a memoir, biography, or narrative nonfiction? Biographies tend to be sweeping—focusing on the whole life. Memoirs tend to focus on an aspect or time period of a life, though not always. For example, Marley & Me was about his time with the dog—THAT was the aspect.
Biography - Narrative, Genre, Today: In the United States, Great Britain, and the rest of the Western world generally, biography today enjoys a moderate popular and critical esteem. In the year 1929, at the height of the biographical "boom," there were published in the United States 667 new biographies; in 1962 exactly the same number appeared, the population in the meantime having ...
Memoir is a story based on your life experience and what you have learned from it. It is a winnowing of all that has happened into a tight view of a slim section of experience: the coming of age years; the head-spinning start of a career; early motherhood. But always, it is a winnowing of the vast, complicated arc of events that has constituted ...
Facebook. These are just some of the story elements you can use to make your biography more compelling. Once you've finished your manuscript, it's a good idea to ask for feedback. 7. Get feedback and polish the text. If you're going to self-publish your biography, you'll have to polish it to professional standards.
Summary. Since 1990, "life writing" has become a frequently used covering term for the familiar genres of biography, autobiography, memoir, diaries, letters, and many other forms of life narrative. Initially adopted as a critical intervention informed by post-structuralist, postmodernist, postcolonial, and especially feminist theory of the ...
In the realm of narrative psychology, a person's life story is not a Wikipedia biography of the facts and events of a life, but rather the way a person integrates those facts and events ...
Outline your biography, ensuring a logical and engaging narrative flow. Consider the chronological order, significant milestones, and turning points in the subject's life. Organize your gathered information to capture the essence of their journey while maintaining a compelling rhythm throughout.
Abstract. This chapter explains the ordinary understandings of the concept and practices of self-referential narrative. It distinguishes between autobiographical writing and the practices of related kinds of life writing, namely, biography, the novel, and history writing.
Biography's relationship to autobiography, memoir, and narrative research in education is well developed and will continually be redefined (Denzin, 1989; Epstein, 1991; Rollyson, 2008) Yet, with the emerging interest in biographical inquiry and with some growing interest in prosopography (group biography), little consensus of terminology ...
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 ...
A narrative, story, or tale is any account of a series of related events or experiences, whether non-fictional (memoir, biography, news report, documentary, travelogue, etc.) or fictional (fairy tale, fable, legend, thriller, novel, etc.). Narratives can be presented through a sequence of written or spoken words, through still or moving images, or through any combination of these.
3. Draft a Short Timeline Before You Write. To make your biography narrative essay a success, draft a short timeline before you write. This timeline could be about the events of the life of the person you are going to be writing or your own if you plan to write an autobiography. Also, drafting your work before finalizing it would make it easier ...
Source: Unsplash. Whether or not we are truly inventors of our own lives, we certainly are inventors of the story of our lives. For some, this story is clear and in the forefront of their minds ...
A *narrative essay* provides a narrative, or story, to its reader, while a *biographical essay* describes the life of another person. When you write a biographical narrative essay, you are telling the story of another person's life. Before you begin writing, decide what aspects of a person's life you want to ...
LIFE AS NARRATIVE 13 and narrative is a two-way affair: that is to say, just as art imi-tates life in Aristotle's sense, so, in Oscar Wilde's, life imitates art. Narrative imitates life, life imitates narrative. "Life" in this sense is the same kind of construction of the human imagina-tion as "a narrative" is. It is constructed by human beings ...
Even Lala herself said it in the season 11 finale of Vanderpump Rules: "I have never experienced someone who gets cheated on and suddenly she becomes God.". For Holland, who has chosen to give ...
In Part 1 of our discussion on the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, we welcome editor Joshua Bennett to discuss Douglass's Narrative as a type of hero's journey, Douglass's political project in writing the book, and how Douglass closes the Narrative with a statement on true Christianity. Joshua Bennett is a professor of literature ...
The Significance of The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano. My focus for the early modern period is Equiano's narrative, The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano.It was published in 1789, and Equiano was his own publisher. Also, British abolitionists, such as Hannah More, Josiah Wedgwood, and John Wesley, helped him publish his book.
Life is Strange: Double Exposure brings the return of fan-favorite character, Max Caulfield, as she seeks to solve the mystery of her friend's untimely death. The twist is that she experiences that death in one timeline, and her unusual powers allow her to transition into one where the murder didn't happen, leaving her to try and figure out ...
The Hidden Life of Google's Secret Weapon Joshua Wright cleared a path to domination for the world's biggest tech companies, keeping regulators at bay while juggling inappropriate ...
Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images. Alicia Vikander and Jude Law came out to Tribeca Festival on Tuesday night for the premiere of their upcoming film, Firebrand. The new take on Henry VIII's life and ...
That was over 40 years ago. Closer to 50 (let's be honest). Early last year, I asked Alexa about Stevie. "Ziggy (my gender -neutral echo's name), play Stevie Wonder from 1974.". Riding the ...