E4 Final Exam: Biographies and Autobiographies (Smith)

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Pros of an autobiography

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1. They lived it --- present for all of it

2. 24/7 access

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Cons of an autobiography

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1. They might be too humble

2. They might brag too much

3. They might forget too much

4. General Bias: leave out negatives/paint more positive picture

5. Lack of other perspective/viewpoints

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Pros of a biography

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1. Multiple perspectives, based on interviewing many people.

2. Possible less bias

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Cons of biography

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1. Lack of access to certain people who were witnesses to events, including the subject if it is an unauthorized biography.

 

2. Being written without constant cooperation of the subject.

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What is a Memoir?

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A type of autobiography that focuses on a specific aspect of the author's life.

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What is a Historical Biography?

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Focuses on historical figures, often reexamining their lives and contributions.

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Autobiography

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Written by the subject about their own life.

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What is a Contemporary Biography?

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Can be Authorized (Approved) or Unauthorized (Written without the approval of the subject).

Authorized Biographies are written with the permission of the subject or their family.

Unauthorized biographies may be controversial.

Also, if the subject is dead, permission may or may not be granted from the living relatives.

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What is a biography of a group?

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Explores the lives of a group of people who share unique characteristics.

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What were the early examples of biographies written about?

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Mythological gods and notable mortals