Autobiography

Saint Augustine by Philippe de Champaigne

Baburnama

Memoirs of Franklin

Autobiography is a literary genre that involves an author writing about their own life. Unlike biographies, which are written by someone other than the subject, autobiographies are penned by the subjects themselves, offering a personal insight into their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This form of writing spans various styles and approaches, from comprehensive accounts covering the entirety of the author's life to more focused narratives highlighting specific periods or events.

Definition and Characteristics

An autobiography is a self-written account of the life of oneself. The word "autobiography" was first used deprecatingly by William Taylor in 1797 in the English periodical The Monthly Review, when he suggested the word as a hybrid, but condemned it as "pedantic". However, its use has become standard. Autobiographies are marked by their personal tone and intimate details, which often include reflections on the author's public and private life, thoughts, and emotions. They can also explore themes of identity, morality, and culture.

Historical Development

The origins of autobiographical writing can be traced back to antiquity, with works such as Augustine of Hippo's Confessions in the 4th century, which is considered one of the first Western autobiographies. The genre has evolved over centuries, with notable examples including The Book of Margery Kempe (circa 1438), considered the first autobiography in English, and more modern works like The Story of My Life by Helen Keller.

In the 20th and 21st centuries, the genre has expanded to include a diverse range of voices and experiences, including those of marginalized and underrepresented communities. This period has seen a significant shift towards more experimental forms of autobiographical writing, such as memoirs, personal essays, and autofiction, blurring the lines between fact and fiction.

Structure and Form

Autobiographies can vary widely in their structure and approach. Some follow a chronological order, while others may adopt a more thematic or fragmented structure. The writing style can range from straightforward and factual to more poetic and reflective. Despite these variations, most autobiographies aim to provide a truthful and honest account of the author's life, making authenticity a key element of the genre.

Ethical Considerations

Writing an autobiography involves various ethical considerations, particularly regarding the portrayal of other people. Authors must navigate the challenges of representing real individuals with accuracy and fairness, often balancing their own perspective with the potential impact on those mentioned in their work.

Notable Autobiographies

- Confessions by Augustine of Hippo - The Story of My Life by Helen Keller - Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela - I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou - The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

See Also

- Biography - Memoir - Diary - Autofiction