what is the difference between biography and autobiography in hindi

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Autobiography और Biography में क्या अंतर है?

साहित्य के दो पारंपरिक रूप जो चरित्र रेखाचित्र और किसी व्यक्ति के जीवन के पाठ्यक्रम का वर्णन करते हैं, जीवनी और आत्मकथा हैं।  आज के इस पोस्ट में हम जानेंगे Autobiography और Biography किसे कहते है और Difference Between Autobiography and Biography in Hindi की Autobiography और Biography में क्या अंतर है?

जीवनी और आत्मकथा के बीच क्या अंतर है?

आत्मकथा और जीवनी दो प्रकार के लिखित खाते हैं जो किसी व्यक्ति के जीवन का वर्णन करते हैं, लेकिन वे उनके दृष्टिकोण और फ़ोकस में भिन्न होते हैं।

आत्मकथा किसी व्यक्ति के जीवन का लिखित विवरण है, जो स्वयं व्यक्ति द्वारा लिखा गया है। यह व्यक्ति के अनुभवों, विचारों और भावनाओं का प्रथम-व्यक्ति खाता है। एक आत्मकथा के लेखक अपने स्वयं के जीवन की कहानी सुनाते हैं और अपने व्यक्तिगत अनुभवों को दर्शाते हैं। आत्मकथा का ध्यान लेखक के अपने दृष्टिकोण और व्यक्तिपरक अनुभव पर होता है।

दूसरी ओर, एक जीवनी किसी के जीवन का एक लिखित खाता है, जो किसी अन्य व्यक्ति द्वारा लिखा गया है। यह व्यक्ति के अनुभवों, विचारों और भावनाओं का तीसरा व्यक्ति खाता है। जीवनीकार शोध करता है और विषय के जीवन के बारे में जानकारी एकत्र करता है, जिसमें अक्सर परिवार और दोस्तों के साथ साक्षात्कार शामिल होते हैं, और फिर विषय के जीवन का वर्णन लिखता है। एक जीवनी का ध्यान लेखक के अपने दृष्टिकोण के बजाय विषय के जीवन और उपलब्धियों पर होता है।

संक्षेप में, एक आत्मकथा और एक जीवनी के बीच मुख्य अंतर यह है कि एक आत्मकथा लेखक के जीवन का एक प्रथम-व्यक्ति खाता है, जबकि एक जीवनी किसी और के जीवन का तीसरा-व्यक्ति खाता है।

Key Differences Between Biography and Autobiography-जीवनी और आत्मकथा के बीच महत्वपूर्ण अंतर

जीवनी और आत्मकथा के बीच के अंतर पर निम्नलिखित बिंदुओं में विस्तार से चर्चा की गई है:

• जीवनी किसी अन्य व्यक्ति द्वारा लिखित किसी व्यक्ति के जीवन का विस्तृत विवरण है, जबकि एक आत्मकथा स्वयं विषय द्वारा लिखी जाती है।
• जीवनी (अधिकृत) या संबंधित व्यक्ति/उत्तराधिकारी की अनुमति के बिना (अनधिकृत) लिखी जा सकती है। इसलिए, जानकारी में तथ्यात्मक गलतियों की संभावना होती है। दूसरी ओर, आत्मकथाएँ स्व-लिखित होती हैं और इसलिए उन्हें किसी प्राधिकरण की आवश्यकता नहीं होती है।
• आत्मकथाओं में ऐसी जानकारी होती है जो विभिन्न स्रोतों से समय-समय पर एकत्र की जाती है और इस प्रकार, यह पाठकों के लिए एक अलग दृष्टिकोण प्रस्तुत करती है। दूसरी ओर, आत्मकथाएँ स्वयं विषय द्वारा लिखी जाती हैं, इसलिए लेखक तथ्यों और अपनी सोच को अपने तरीके से प्रस्तुत करता है, इस प्रकार पाठकों को एक समग्र संकीर्ण और पक्षपाती परिप्रेक्ष्य प्रदान करता है।
• एक आत्मकथा में, लेखक पहले आख्यान का उपयोग करता है जैसे मैं, मैं, हम, वह, वह, आदि। यह बदले में, लेखक और पाठक के बीच एक अंतरंग संबंध बनाता है क्योंकि पाठक विभिन्न पहलुओं का अनुभव करता है जैसे कि वह है। उस समय अवधि में। जैसा कि एक जीवनी का विरोध किसी तीसरे व्यक्ति के दृष्टिकोण से होता है और बहुत कम अंतरंग होता है।
• जीवनी लिखने का उद्देश्य पाठक को व्यक्ति और उसके जीवन के बारे में बताना और सूचित करना है जबकि आत्मकथा कथावाचक के जीवन के अनुभवों और उपलब्धियों को व्यक्त करने के लिए लिखी जाती है।

इसके आलावा भी Autobiography और Biography में कुछ महत्वपूर्ण अंतर होते है जिनको हम Difference टेबल के माध्यम से नीचे समझेंगे लेकिन उससे पहले हम Autobiography और Biography किसे कहते है इसको और अच्छे से समझ लेते है।

What is Autobiography   in Hindi -आत्मकथा किसे कहते है?

एक आत्मकथा एक व्यक्ति का जीवन रेखाचित्र है जो उस व्यक्ति द्वारा स्वयं या स्वयं लिखा गया है। ऑटो शब्द का अर्थ है ‘स्वयं।’ इसलिए, आत्मकथा में जीवनी के सभी तत्व शामिल होते हैं लेकिन स्वयं लेखक द्वारा रचित या सुनाए जाते हैं। वह अपने दम पर लिख सकता/सकती है या उनके लिए लिखने के लिए घोस्ट राइटर्स को हायर कर सकता/सकती है।

एक आत्मकथा कथाकार के चरित्र रेखाचित्र को प्रस्तुत करती है, वह स्थान जहाँ वह पैदा हुआ और लाया गया, उसकी शिक्षा, कार्य, जीवन के अनुभव, चुनौतियाँ और उपलब्धियाँ। इसमें उनके बचपन, किशोरावस्था और वयस्कता की घटनाएं और कहानियां शामिल हो सकती हैं।

What is Biography   in Hindi -जीवनी  किसे कहते है?

एक जीवनी किसी व्यक्ति के जीवन का लिखित या किसी अन्य व्यक्ति द्वारा निर्मित विस्तृत विवरण है। यह संबंधित व्यक्ति के जन्मस्थान, शैक्षिक पृष्ठभूमि, कार्य, संबंधों और निधन के बारे में विस्तृत जानकारी देता है। यह विषय के जीवन के बारे में अंतरंग विवरण प्रस्तुत करता है, उतार-चढ़ाव पर ध्यान केंद्रित करता है और उनके पूरे व्यक्तित्व का विश्लेषण करता है।

एक जीवनी आमतौर पर लिखित रूप में होती है, लेकिन फिल्म की व्याख्या के लिए संगीत रचना या साहित्य के अन्य रूपों में भी बनाई जा सकती है।

यह किसी अन्य व्यक्ति द्वारा शब्दों से रचित एक व्यक्ति के जीवन का पुनरुत्पादन है। लेखक विषय के बारे में हर एक विवरण एकत्र करता है और जीवनी में उन तथ्यों को प्रस्तुत करता है, जो प्रासंगिक और दिलचस्प हैं, पाठकों को कहानी में शामिल करने के लिए।

Comparison Table Difference Between Autobiography and Biography in Hindi

अभी तक ऊपर हमने जाना की Autobiography और Biography किसे कहते है अगर आपने ऊपर दी गयी सारी चीजे ध्यान से पढ़ी है तो आपको Autobiography और Biography के बीच क्या अंतर है इसके बारे में अच्छे से पता चल गया होगा।

अगर आपको अब भी Autobiography और Biography क्या होता है और इसमें क्या अंतर है इसको समझने में में कोई कन्फ़्युशन है तो अब हम आपको इनके बीच के कुछ महत्वपूर्ण अंतर नीचे बताने जा रहे है।

आज के इस पोस्ट में हमने जाना की Autobiography और Biography किसे कहते है और Difference Between Autobiography and Biography in Hindi की Autobiography और Biography में क्या अंतर है। संक्षेप में, Autobiography और Biography दोनों ही एक व्यक्ति के जीवन के दस्तावेजीकरण के लक्ष्य को साझा करती हैं, प्रत्येक का दृष्टिकोण और परिप्रेक्ष्य महत्वपूर्ण रूप से भिन्न हो सकता है। एक आत्मकथा व्यक्ति द्वारा स्वयं अपने दृष्टिकोण से लिखी जाती है, और प्रकृति में अधिक व्यक्तिपरक होती है, जबकि एक जीवनी किसी और के द्वारा लिखी जाती है, जिसमें वस्तुनिष्ठता पर ध्यान केंद्रित किया जाता है और विषय के संपूर्ण जीवन पर एक व्यापक नज़र डाली जाती है।

• Autobiography
• Autobiography kise kahte hai
• Biography kise kahte hai

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जीवनी और आत्मकथा में अंतर | Difference between biography and autobiography

Table of Contents

जीवनी और आत्मकथा (Jivani Aur Aatmkatha Me Antar) दो अलग-अलग लिखने के तरीके हैं, लेकिन ये दोनों व्यक्ति के जीवन की कहानी को साझा करने के तरीके हैं. निम्नलिखित हैं जीवनी और आत्मकथा में मुख्य अंतर (Jivani Aur Aatmkatha Me Antar):-

• जीवनी (Biography) : जीवनी किसी अन्य व्यक्ति की कहानी को लिखने का काम होता है, जो किसी दूसरे व्यक्ति द्वारा लिखी जाती है। इसमें लेखक अपनी खुद की कहानी नहीं लिखता है, बल्कि वह दूसरे व्यक्ति के जीवन को डिटेल्ड रूप से बताता है। जीवनी और आत्मकथा में अंतर
• आत्मकथा (Autobiography) : आत्मकथा किसी व्यक्ति द्वारा उनके खुद के जीवन की कहानी को लिखने का काम होता है। इसमें लेखक अपने आत्मा की कहानी को साझा करता है, अपने अनुभवों, विचारों, और जीवनी के महत्वपूर्ण घटनाओं के साथ। जीवनी और आत्मकथा में अंतर
• जीवनी (Biography) : जीवनी एक परियोजना हो सकती है जिसे एक लेखक या जरूरतमंद व्यक्ति द्वारा तैयार किया जाता है, जिसका उद्देश्य व्यक्ति के जीवन की रूपरेखा बनाना होता है। यह किसी दूसरे की कहानी को जनमानस के साथ साझा करने का प्रयास होता है।
• आत्मकथा (Autobiography) : आत्मकथा व्यक्ति की खुद की परियोजना होती है, जिसे वह अपने जीवन के तत्वों, घटनाओं, और अनुभवों के साथ तैयार करता है। इसमें लेखक का व्यक्तिगत दृष्टिकोण और विचार होते हैं।
• जीवनी (Biography) : जीवनी व्यक्ति के जीवन के बारे में अन्य व्यक्तियों को सूचना प्रदान करती है और उनके जीवनी के महत्वपूर्ण घटनाओं और योगदान को उजागर करती है। जीवनी और आत्मकथा में अंतर
• आत्मकथा (Autobiography) : आत्मकथा लेखक के व्यक्तिगत जीवन को साझा करके उनके अंदर के भावनाओं, विचारों, और आत्मा के प्रति उनकी जानकारी को प्रस्तुत करती है। जीवनी और आत्मकथा में अंतर
• जीवनी (Biography) : जीवनी का पाठक एक दूसरे के जीवन को समझने का प्रयास करता है और उनके योगदान को सराहता है।
• आत्मकथा (Autobiography) : आत्मकथा का पाठक लेखक के अंदर के दुनिया को समझने का प्रयास करता है और उनके व्यक्तिगत अनुभवों और सोच को समझने का प्रयास करता है।

संक्षेप में, जीवनी और आत्मकथा (Jivani Aur Aatmkatha Me Antar) दो अलग-अलग प्रकार की कहानियों को लिखने और पढ़ने के तरीके हैं, जिनमें एक व्यक्ति की जीवन की कहानी को साझा करने का प्रयास होता है, पर उनमें ये मुख्य अंतर होते हैं कि कौन उसे लिख रहा है और किसके लिए वह लिख रहा है।

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जीवनी किसे कहते है | Jivani Kise Kahte Hain

“जीवनी” एक प्रकार की पुस्तक होती है जो किसी व्यक्ति के जीवन की कहानी को लिखी जाती है। इसमें व्यक्ति के जीवन के महत्वपूर्ण घटनाओं, उनके योगदान, उनके परिपर्णता, और उनके सामाजिक, आर्थिक, और सांस्कृतिक परिपेक्ष्य की चित्रण किया जाता है। जीवनी का मुख्य उद्देश्य व्यक्ति के जीवन की गहराईयों में जाने और उनके योगदान को समझने का होता है, ताकि पाठक उनके जीवन से सिख सके और प्रेरणा पा सके।

जीवनी पुस्तकें आमतौर पर प्रमुख व्यक्तियों, जैसे कि ऐतिहासिक, राजनेता, विज्ञानी, कला कर्मी, खिलाड़ी, या व्यवसायी, के बारे में लिखी जाती हैं। इन पुस्तकों में व्यक्ति के जीवन की उनकी महत्वपूर्ण कहानियां, संघर्ष, सफलता, और विफलता का वर्णन किया जाता है, जिससे पाठक उनसे जुड़कर उनसे सिख सकते हैं। जीवनी और आत्मकथा में अंतर

इसके अलावा, जीवनी किताबें अक्सर एक व्यक्ति की जीवन के विभिन्न पहलुओं को प्रस्तुत करने के साथ-साथ उनके सोचने के तरीके, मूल्य, और दृष्टिकोण को भी दिखाती हैं, जिससे पाठकों को उनके जीवन में सकारात्मक परिवर्तन करने के लिए प्रेरित किया जा सकता है। जीवनी और आत्मकथा में अंतर

जीवनी की परिभाषा | Jivani Ki Paribhasha

Jivani Aur Aatmkatha Me Antar:- “जीवनी” शब्द का अर्थ होता है एक व्यक्ति के जीवन का विवरण या कहानी। यह कहानी व्यक्ति के जीवन के महत्वपूर्ण घटनाओं, उनके योगदान, सांस्कृतिक, सामाजिक, और आर्थिक परिपर्णता, संघर्षों, सफलताओं और विफलताओं का वर्णन करती है। जीवनी एक व्यक्ति के जीवन की कहानी को उसके जीवन के विभिन्न पहलुओं के साथ सुनाने का माध्यम होती है, जिससे पाठक उनके जीवन से सीख सकते हैं और प्रेरित हो सकते हैं। जीवनी और आत्मकथा में अंतर

जीवनी एक पुस्तक, फिल्म, आर्टिकल, या किसी अन्य माध्यम के रूप में प्रस्तुत की जा सकती है, और इसका मुख्य उद्देश्य व्यक्ति के जीवन के महत्वपूर्ण क्षणों और उनकी प्रासंगिकता को प्रमोट करना और उनके योगदान को याद रखना होता है। इसके अलावा, जीवनी व्यक्ति के विचारों, मूल्यों, और दृष्टिकोण को भी प्रकट कर सकती है, जिससे पाठकों को उनके आत्मविकास और सफलता के मार्ग पर गाइड करने में मदद मिल सकती है। जीवनी और आत्मकथा में अंतर

आत्मकथा किसे कहते हैं? | Aatmakatha Kise Kahte Hai

Jivani Aur Aatmkatha Me Antar:- “आत्मकथा” एक प्रकार की लेखन शैली है जिसमें एक व्यक्ति अपने खुद के जीवन की कहानी को लिखता है। इसमें व्यक्ति अपने जीवन के विभिन्न पहलुओं, घटनाओं, और अनुभवों का वर्णन करता है, जो उनके व्यक्तिगत जीवन को मोहरे पर लाते हैं। आत्मकथा व्यक्ति के अंदर के भावनाओं, विचारों, मूल्यों, और सोच को प्रकट करने का माध्यम भी होती है।

आत्मकथा लेखक अपने जीवन की महत्वपूर्ण कहानियों, अच्छी बुरी घटनाओं, व्यक्तिगत संघर्षों, सफलताओं, और विफलताओं को साझा करता है, जिससे पाठकों को उनके जीवन के संघर्षों और सफलतों से सिखने और प्रेरित होने का अवसर मिलता है। जीवनी और आत्मकथा में अंतर

आत्मकथा एक व्यक्ति के व्यक्तिगत दृष्टिकोण, विचारधारा, और व्यक्तिगत सत्ता को प्रमोट करती है, और व्यक्ति के जीवन के महत्वपूर्ण क्षणों को साझा करके पाठकों को विचारक और सोचने के लिए प्रोत्साहित करती है। यह एक स्वच्छंद, प्रासंगिक और व्यक्तिगत तरीके से अपने जीवन का मूल्यांकन करने और सजीव करने का माध्यम भी हो सकती है।

आत्मकथा की परिभाषा | Aatmakatha Ki Paribhasha

“आत्मकथा” एक प्रकार की लेखन शैली है जिसमें व्यक्ति अपने खुद के जीवन की कहानी को लिखता है। इसमें व्यक्ति अपने जीवन के विभिन्न पहलुओं, घटनाओं, और अनुभवों का विवरण करता है, जो उनके व्यक्तिगत जीवन को मोहरे पर लाते हैं। आत्मकथा लेखक अपने जीवन की महत्वपूर्ण कहानियों, अच्छी बुरी घटनाओं, व्यक्तिगत संघर्षों, सफलताओं, और विफलताओं को साझा करता है, जिससे पाठकों को उनके जीवन के संघर्षों और सफलतों से सीखने और प्रेरित होने का अवसर मिलता है। जीवनी और आत्मकथा में अंतर

आत्मकथा एक व्यक्ति के व्यक्तिगत दृष्टिकोण, विचारधारा, और व्यक्तिगत सत्ता को प्रमोट करती है, और व्यक्ति के जीवन के महत्वपूर्ण क्षणों को साझा करके पाठकों को विचारक और सोचने के लिए प्रोत्साहित करती है। यह एक स्वच्छंद, प्रासंगिक और व्यक्तिगत तरीके से अपने जीवन का मूल्यांकन करने और सजीव करने का माध्यम भी हो सकती है। जीवनी और आत्मकथा में अंतर

आत्मकथा अक्सर किसी प्रमुख व्यक्तित्व के द्वारा लिखी जाती है जो अपने जीवन और योगदान को साझा करने का इच्छुक होते हैं। इसका उद्देश्य पाठकों को व्यक्ति के व्यक्तिगत जीवन से सिखने और प्रेरित होने का मौका प्रदान करना होता है।

Read More:-  Jivani Aur Aatmkatha Me Antar

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• Key Differences

Know the Differences & Comparisons

Difference between Biography and Autobiography

Both of these two presents the view of, what happened in the past where the author lived. These are non-fiction books, written in chronological order, tells a story about the person who made a significant contribution in a specific field. Many think that the two writing forms are one and the same thing, but there are noticeable difference between the two, that are presented in the given article.

Content: Biography Vs Autobiography

Comparison chart, definition of biography.

A biography also referred as ‘bio’ is a detailed account of a person’s life written or produced by another person. It gives an elaborate information regarding the birthplace, educational background, work, relationships and demise of the person concerned. It presents the subject’s intimate details about life, focusing on the highs and lows and analysing their whole personality.

A biography is usually in the written form but can also be made in other forms of a music composition or literature to film interpretation.

It is the recreation of the life of an individual composed of words by another person. The author collects every single detail about the subject and presents those facts in the biography, which are relevant and interesting, to engross the readers in the story.

Definition of Autobiography

An autobiography is the life sketch of a person written by that person himself or herself. The word auto means ‘self.’ Therefore, autobiography contains all the elements of a biography but composed or narrated by the author himself. He/She may write on their own or may hire ghostwriters to write for them.

An autobiography presents the narrator’s character sketch, the place where he is born and brought up, his education, work, life experiences, challenges, and achievements. This may include events and stories of his childhood, teenage, and adulthood.

Key Differences Between Biography and Autobiography

The difference between biography and autobiography are discussed in detail in the following points:

• Biography is a detailed account of a person’s life written by someone else, while an autobiography is written by the subject themselves.
• Biography can be written with (authorised) or without permission (unauthorised) from the person/heir’s concerned. Therefore, there are chances of factual mistakes in the information. On the other hand, autobiographies are self-written and therefore doesn’t require any authorization.
• Biographies contain information that is collected over a period of time from different sources and thus, it projects a different outlook to the readers. On the other hand, autobiographies are written by the subject themselves, therefore, the writer presents the facts and his thinking in his own way, thus providing an overall narrow and biased perspective to the readers.
• In an Autobiography, the author uses the first narrative like I, me, we, he, she, etc. This, in turn, makes an intimate connection between the author and the reader since the reader experience various aspects as if he/she is in that time period. As opposed a biography is from a third person’s view and is much less intimate.
• The purpose of writing a biography is to introduce and inform the readers about the person and his life whereas an autobiography is written in order to express, the life experiences and achievements of the narrator.

Video: Biography Vs Autobiography

There are several autobiographies which are worth mentioning like ‘The Story of My Life’ by Helen Keller, ‘An Autobiography’ by Jawaharlal Nehru, ‘The Diary of a Young Girl’ by Anne Frank, ‘Memoirs of the Second World War’ by Winston Churchill, ‘Wings of Fire’ by A. P. J. Abdul Kalam and much more.

Examples of some famous biographies are- Tolstoy: A Russian Life by Rosamund Bartlett, His Excellency: George Washington by Joseph J. Ellis, Einstein: The Life and Times by Ronald William Clark, Biography of Walt Disney: The Inspirational Life Story of Walt Disney – The Man Behind “Disneyland” by Steve Walters, Princess Diana- A Biography Of The Princess Of Wales by Drew L. Crichton.

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May 7, 2023 at 6:47 am

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Manish Bhati says

June 21, 2023 at 11:51 am

Great explanation by Surbhi S, it clears confusion between biographies and autobiographies.

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Autobiography and Biography Difference

Autobiography and Biography Difference : An autobiography is a written account of a person’s life, written by the person themselves. In contrast, a biography is a written account of a person’s life, written by someone else.

What is Autobiography And Biography Difference?

1. what is autobiography :.

An autobiography is a written account of a person’s life, written by that person. It is a self-written story that reflects the author’s personal experiences, thoughts, and emotions. In an autobiography, the author narrates their own story, beginning from their birth, childhood, family background, education, achievements, challenges, and other significant events in their life . Autobiography is usually written in the first person, and the author takes the reader through their own journey of life.

Autobiographies can provide valuable insights into the life and experiences of the author, offering a first-hand account of their thoughts, emotions, and perspectives. Autobiographies can be written by anyone, from famous personalities to everyday people, and can cover a wide range of topics, from personal struggles and triumphs to professional achievements and contributions to society.

Some well-known autobiographies include “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” by Malcolm X, “The Story of My Experiments with Truth” by Mahatma Gandhi, and “The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank. Autobiographies can be an important source of inspiration, knowledge, and understanding, both for the author and for readers who seek to learn from their experiences.

2. What is Biography :

A biography is a written account of someone’s life, written by someone else. A biographer researches and writes about another person’s life, drawing on various sources such as interviews, personal journals, letters, and other documents. The biographer presents a detailed account of the subject’s life, including their childhood, family background, education, career, achievements, challenges, and other significant events. Biographies are written in the third person, and the author aims to give an objective account of the subject’s life.

Biographies can offer valuable insights into the life and legacy of a person, providing a comprehensive understanding of their achievements, struggles, and contributions to society. Biographies can cover a wide range of subjects, including historical figures, cultural icons, political leaders, business leaders, artists, and more.

Some well-known biographies include “Steve Jobs” by Walter Isaacson, “Leonardo da Vinci” by Walter Isaacson, and “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot. Biographies can be an important source of inspiration, knowledge, and understanding, helping readers to learn from the experiences and contributions of others.

Autobiography and Biography Difference No. 1

Autobiographies are typically written in the first person, and they often cover a person’s entire life, from childhood to the present. They provide a personal perspective on the events and experiences that have shaped the person’s life. Autobiographies can be very intimate and revealing, and they are often written with the intention of sharing personal experiences or insights with others.

Biographies, on the other hand, are typically written in the third person, and they focus on the significant events and accomplishments of a person’s life. Biographers research and gather information about the person’s life from various sources, including interviews with the subject and their family and friends, historical records, and other documents. Biographies often provide a more objective perspective on the person’s life, as they are written by someone who is not personally involved.

In summary, the main difference between an autobiography and a biography is that an autobiography is written by the person themselves, while a biography is written by someone else. Autobiographies provide a personal perspective on the person’s life, while biographies provide a more objective perspective based on research and other sources of information.

Autobiography and Biography Difference No. 2

Autobiography and biography are two different forms of literature that focus on the lives of individuals. The key difference between the two is that an autobiography is a self-written account of a person’s life, while a biography is a written account of someone’s life written by another person.

Autobiography :

An autobiography is a book or a written account that tells the story of a person’s life, usually written by the person themselves. The author provides an intimate and personal perspective of their life, including their experiences, achievements, and challenges. Autobiographies are typically written in the first person point of view, as the author narrates their own life story.

A biography, on the other hand, is a written account of someone’s life that is written by another person. It is an objective and factual portrayal of the subject’s life that focuses on significant events and achievements. Biographies are written in the third person point of view and are typically based on extensive research, interviews, and other sources of information.

In summary, the main difference between an autobiography and a biography is the authorship. Autobiographies are self-written accounts of a person’s life, while biographies are written by another person about a person’s life.

Autobiography and Biography Difference No. 3

Autobiography and biography are both forms of literature that focus on the life of an individual, but there are some key differences between the two.

An autobiography is a first-person account of a person’s life written by the subject of the story. Autobiographies are typically more personal and subjective, as the author writes about their own experiences, thoughts, and feelings. The author can also choose to emphasize certain events or aspects of their life that are important to them. Autobiographies are often written by famous people or public figures, but anyone can write one.

A biography, on the other hand, is a written account of a person’s life written by someone else. Biographies are typically more objective and factual, as the author has to research and gather information from various sources to write the story. Biographers often interview people who knew the subject of the story and review historical documents, such as letters or newspapers, to get a better understanding of the person’s life. Biographies can be written about anyone, famous or not.

In summary, the main difference between an autobiography and a biography is that an autobiography is written by the person about themselves, while a biography is written about a person by someone else. Autobiographies are more personal and subjective, while biographies are more objective and factual.

Autobiography and Biography Difference No. 4

An autobiography is a written account of a person’s life, written by the person themselves. It is a first-person narrative that tells the story of the author’s life, experiences, achievements, and struggles. Autobiographies often include personal reflections and insights that provide a deeper understanding of the author’s personality, motivations, and worldview.

On the other hand, a biography is a written account of a person’s life, written by someone else. It is a third-person narrative that tells the story of the subject’s life, experiences, achievements, and struggles. Biographies are often written by professional writers or historians who have conducted extensive research on the subject’s life and have collected information from various sources such as interviews, letters, and historical records.

One of the key differences between an autobiography and a biography is the perspective from which the story is told. Autobiographies are written from a first-person perspective, while biographies are written from a third-person perspective. Additionally, autobiographies are typically more personal and subjective, while biographies are often more objective and factual.

Another difference is that autobiographies are typically more focused on the author’s inner thoughts and feelings, while biographies are often more focused on the subject’s actions and accomplishments. Autobiographies may also be more selective in the events and experiences they choose to highlight, while biographies strive to provide a comprehensive and accurate portrayal of the subject’s life.

In summary, while both autobiographies and biographies are written accounts of a person’s life, the key differences lie in the perspective from which the story is told and the level of subjectivity or objectivity in the narrative.

Autobiography and Biography Difference No. 5

Autobiography and biography are two types of written works that share some similarities but also have distinct differences.

An autobiography is a written account of a person’s life, written by the person themselves. It is a self-written story of a person’s life, including their experiences, thoughts, and feelings. An autobiography is usually written in the first person and provides a personal perspective on the events and circumstances that shaped the author’s life.

On the other hand, a biography is a written account of a person’s life, written by someone else. It is a story of a person’s life, including their experiences, thoughts, and feelings, as told by another person. A biography is usually written in the third person and provides an objective perspective on the events and circumstances that shaped the subject’s life.

The key difference between an autobiography and a biography is the authorship. Autobiographies are written by the person themselves, while biographies are written by someone else. Additionally, autobiographies are generally more subjective in nature, as they are written from the author’s personal perspective, while biographies tend to be more objective and based on research and interviews with the subject and other sources.

In summary, the main difference between an autobiography and a biography is that an autobiography is written by the person themselves, while a biography is written by someone else. Autobiographies tend to be more subjective, while biographies tend to be more objective.

Autobiography and Biography Difference No. 6

Autobiography and biography are both forms of literature that provide insights into the life of a person, but they differ in terms of their perspective and authorship.

Autobiography is a written account of a person’s life, written by that person. It is a self-written story that reflects the author’s personal experiences, thoughts, and emotions. In an autobiography, the author narrates their own story, beginning from their birth, childhood, family background, education, achievements, challenges, and other significant events in their life. Autobiography is usually written in the first person, and the author takes the reader through their own journey of life.

On the other hand, biography is a written account of someone’s life, written by someone else. A biographer researches and writes about another person’s life, drawing on various sources such as interviews, personal journals, letters, and other documents. The biographer presents a detailed account of the subject’s life, including their childhood, family background, education, career, achievements, challenges, and other significant events. Biographies are written in the third person, and the author aims to give an objective account of the subject’s life.

In summary of Autobiography and Biography Difference the key difference between autobiography and biography is that autobiography is written by the person about their own life, while biography is written by someone else about another person’s life.

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• R K Narayan Biography

Biography of R K Narayan

Rasipuram Krishnaswami Iyer Narayanaswami (RK Narayan) was a well-known Indian writer famous for his set of work and writing in the fictional South Indian town of Malgudi. He was one of the leading and famous authors of early Indian literature written in English along with two others, Mulk Raj Anand and Raja Rao.

Narayan's greatest achievement was to make India accessible to the outside world through his writing and powerful words in his literature. Narayan's biography is always centered on his friendship with Graham Greene. Because he was Narayan's mentor and close friend. He was actively involved in identifying and getting publishers for Narayan's first four books. 

In 1941, he founded his own publishing house and his works quickly found a permanent and favorite place in the bookshelves of almost all the Indian homes. When he was at the peak of his fame in his successful career, Narayan was then awarded a Padma Bhushan in 1964 and 36 years later, just a year before his death at 94, another prestigious Padma Vibhushan award in 2000. Narayan was critically ill and hospitalized with cardiovascular problems two weeks ago in Madras, the capital of the southern state of Tamil Nadu, where he was born in 1906.

Early Life 

Narayan was born in 1906 in Madras (now renamed and known as Chennai, Tamil Nadu), British India into a normal Hindu family. He was one of eight children his parents have had and Narayan was second among the sons; his younger brother Ramachandran was an editor at Gemini Studios, and the youngest brother Laxman was a successful cartoonist. 

Narayan spent the early years of his life in Madras in the care of his grandmother and a maternal uncle and joined his parents mainly only during the vacations. At that time, India was still treated as the most important of the British empire, a colony held since 1857.

RK Narayan attended a number of schools than a usual student would as in Madras while living with his grandmother, in which the main school was the Lutheran Mission School in Purasawalkam, C.R.C. High School, and Christian College High School. Narayan was an ardent and passionate reader who grew up reading Dickens, Wodehouse, Arthur Conan Doyle, and Thomas Hardy.

After completing high school, Narayan failed the university entrance examination unfortunately but got to have lots of time to spend a year at home reading and writing; and then he successfully passed the final examination in 1926 and joined Maharaja College of Mysore.

RK Narayan was always found devoted and dedicated to reading whenever he got time.

Awards and Honors

Among the best works of RK Narayan among his 34 novels, The English Teacher (1945), Waiting for the Mahatma (1955), The Guide (1958), The Man-Eater of Malgudi (1961), The Vendor of Sweets (1967), and A Tiger for Malgudi (1983) were the best.

His novel The Guide (1958) won him the most prestigious National Prize of the Indian Literary Academy, which was his country's highest honor. Narayan received many other awards and honors including the AC Benson Medal from the Royal Society of Literature, the Padma Vibhushan, and the Padma Bhushan, India's second and third highest civilian awards, and in 1994 the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship, the highest honor of India's national academy of letters. He was also once nominated to the Rajya Sabha, which is the upper house of India's parliament.

To know more about RK Narayanan, log into Vedantu and find out what the experts have to say about this legend. His creations have made him an immortal figure in Indian literature that every booklover, irrespective of age, admires.

FAQs on R K Narayan Biography

1. Who is RK Narayan?

RK Narayan was one of the most important English-language Indian fiction authors. He is widely regarded as one of India's best novelists. He created a realistic and immersive experience for his audience by bringing small-town India to them.

2. When and Where Was RK Narayan Born?

RK Narayan was born on 10 October 1906 in Madras (Chennai), Tamil Nadu, India into an Iyer Vadama Brahmin family.

3. Which Was the First Book Published by RK Narayan?

Swami and Friends was RK Narayan's first book, published in 1930. The novel was based on several incidents from his own childhood and was semi-autobiographical. It is still one of the most recommended English readers in Indian schools.

4. What is the difference between Biography and Autobiography?

A biography is often written on account of a person's whole life, which will be framed and written by someone else. On the other hand, an autobiography is also written on account of a person's life but will be written by that person himself from his own point of view. Vedantu's website has been designed to help you find both biographical and autobiographical information in many different formats through online libraries. You can refer to the material and learn about all the great people who have marked their names in history with the help of Vedantu at the comfort of your home.

5. What are the types of Biography?

There are four classic and informative types of biographies they are historical fiction, academic, fictional academic, and prophetic biography. A historical fiction type of biography is a creative account inspired by the events of a person’s life. Academic biographies are based on documented facts and noted accomplishments of a person’s life. A fictional academic biography often tries to combine the best and interesting elements of the fictional biography (entertainment with a strong theme and storyline) and the academic biography (with factual accuracy as well). And a prophetic biography begins with retelling the regular academic approach of considering all the known facts which have been already framed.

6. Why is reading a biography really important?

Biographies help us gain insight and deep knowledge into how successful people handle crises and solve complex problems in their times. They will gradually invite us into people's lives, allowing us to observe them as they battle with challenges and make important decisions at right time. This ultimately helps the reader to greater understanding and better decision making in their own lives. Not all individuals are the same everyone has their own experience and knowledge but biographies of great people who have achieved a lot can always guide you on the right path.

7. How do students benefit from reading biographies?

Biographies help students understand the history and life experiences through another person's perspective, which may encourage them to ask more questions and learn even more. Biographies often serve as a starting point for learning more about a passion at an early age which helps them in choosing their career. Basically, while reading a biography or an autobiography, you get to learn about what an individual has been through, and more often their life experiences at every stage. Since it is believed that human life and psychology are in similarity you can easily relate with those individuals and put yourself in their shoes to understand the experience better.

8. Does reading History help us in our daily life?

Knowing the past is extremely important for any society and human being to know what has happened in their past and which person has invented or created memorable and historic moments. Past gives us insights into our evolving behavior and basic character in matters of life, love, mutuality, war, diplomacy, and peace. It provides insights in-depth understanding into the processes and events of the past and interconnects them with our current life. History serves as a Warning to avoid any mistakes that have been done in the past and gives us a second chance to live our lives even better in our present.

Difference Between Biography and Autobiography (With Table)

Biography and autobiography are two literary genres that revolve around the life stories of individuals. Despite sharing a common subject matter, there are distinct differences between these two forms of literature. While both biography and autobiography aim to tell the life story of an individual, they differ in terms of authorship and perspective. In this article, we will discuss the similarities and differences between biography and autobiography with the help of a table and other key differences.

Table of Contents

Biography Vs Autobiography (Chart)

• Difference Between Fiction and Nonfiction
• Difference Between Race and Ethnicity
• Difference Between Technical and Creative Writing

What is Biography?

A biography is a written account of a person’s life story, written by another person. It is an objective account of the life of an individual, including significant events, accomplishments, and notable contributions. A biographer conducts extensive research to gather information about the individual, including interviews with family members, friends, and colleagues. Biographers often use primary sources such as diaries, letters, and other personal documents to gain a deeper understanding of the subject’s life.

A biography can be written in various formats, including a chronological account of the subject’s life, a thematic approach that focuses on specific aspects of the individual’s life, or a combination of both. Biographies can be written for a wide audience or targeted to a specific demographic. Biographies can also be written in different styles, such as academic or popular, depending on the intended readership.

What is Autobiography?

An autobiography is a written account of a person’s life story, written by the individual themselves. It is a first-person account of one’s life experiences, providing insights into the author’s thoughts, feelings, and personal perspectives. Autobiographies often provide a deeper understanding of the subject’s life, as they offer unique insights into the individual’s thought processes and motivations.

Autobiographies can also be written in various formats, including a chronological account of the author’s life, a thematic approach that focuses on specific events or experiences, or a combination of both. Like biographies, autobiographies can be written for a wide audience or targeted to a specific demographic.

Key Differences Between Biography and Autobiography

While comparing biography and autobiography, here we have included some of the key differences between them. They are as follows.

• Authorship: The most significant difference between biography and autobiography is authorship. A biography is written by another person, while an autobiography is written by the individual themselves. Biographies are therefore objective accounts of the subject’s life, while autobiographies are subjective accounts of the author’s experiences.
• Perspective: Biographies offer an outsider’s perspective on the subject’s life, while autobiographies offer a first-person perspective. Autobiographies provide unique insights into the author’s thoughts, feelings, and personal experiences. On the other hand, biographies rely on interviews and primary sources to gain a deeper understanding of the subject’s life.
• Purpose: Biographies are often written to provide an objective account of an individual’s life. On the other hand, autobiographies are often written to offer a personal perspective on the author’s life experiences. Biographies can also be written to provide insights into historical events or cultural movements. In contrast, autobiographies are often written for therapeutic or personal reasons.

The following comparison table also shows the difference between biography and autobiography in a brief manner.

3 Similarities between Biography and Autobiography

• Both genres aim to tell the life story of an individual. Whether written by an author or the individual themselves, both biographies and autobiographies aim to provide a comprehensive account of the subject’s life experiences.
• Both genres rely on extensive research to gather information about the subject’s life. Biographers conduct interviews and use primary sources to gain a deeper understanding of the individual’s life, while autobiographers draw on their personal experiences and memories to create a first-person account.
• And finally, both genres can be written in various formats, including a chronological account of the subject’s life or a thematic approach that focuses on specific events or experiences.

In conclusion, biography and autobiography are two distinct genres that share a common subject matter. whether you prefer reading about the lives of others or writing about your own experiences, both biography, and autobiography offer rich and engaging narratives that can inspire, educate, and entertain readers for generations to come.

Basir Saboor

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Autobiography vs Biography: Differences and Similarities

POSTED ON Oct 7, 2023

Written by Nicole Ahlering

So you want to learn more about your favorite influential figure. Should you read an autobiography or a biography about them? 

It depends on what you’re looking for! 

Need A Nonfiction Book Outline?

In this guide, we’ll explain autobiography vs biography and help you choose which one you want to read. We’ll also touch on where memoirs fit in with these genres. Let’s dive in! 

This autobiography vs biography comparison includes:

The similarities between biographies and autobiographies.

Both biographies and autobiographies are written accounts of a person’s life. They typically recount the person’s life experiences, challenges, and accomplishments. 

Usually, each of these genres is written in a narrative style. In other words, it uses storytelling techniques to convey information about its subject. 

Autobiographies and biographies both feature context about the subject’s life by discussing the time in which the subject lived (or is living), the culture and location in which they live(d), and more. 

Like any good story, the best biographies and autobiographies often feature narratives about trials that are overcome and lessons that are learned. They may also focus on the influence and impact of the book’s subject. 

Difference between biography and autobiography

The biggest difference between an autobiography and a biography is that an autobiography is written by the subject of the book about their own life, while a biography is written by another person. 

For example, actress Lucille Ball wrote an autobiography about her life called Love, Lucy . Meanwhile, an author named Kathleen Brady wrote a biography about Lucille Ball called Lucy: The Life of Lucille Ball .

Here are a few other key differences between the two genres: 

1. Different perspectives

Naturally, an autobiography is written from the first-person perspective, which means the author is providing a personalized point of view on their own life. 

Meanwhile, a biography is written from a third-person perspective, meaning the author is writing from an external point of view, with limited insight into the subject’s personal thoughts or feelings. 

2. Control of the narrative

When someone writes their autobiography , they control which parts of their life story they include and which they omit. They can choose which perspective they share and which parts of themselves they want to spotlight. 

Meanwhile, a biography relies on research, interviews and sources to construct a complete picture of a subject’s life. A biographer is likely to be more objective in their presentation of a person—perhaps even including unsavory details about their subject that the subject themselves wouldn’t include. 

3. Levels of objectivity

Even the best autobiography will be subjective because it’s based on the author’s personal memories and feelings. 

On the other hand, many biographers strive to be more objective in their writing. They tend to consult multiple sources, conduct a variety of interviews, and more to make sure they’re writing an accurate portrayal of their subject. 

4. Sources used

Because an autobiographer is writing a story about their own life, their sources will primarily be self-generated. Though they may rely on those close to them, like family members, to verify or recount certain memories they hold. 

That said, many autobiographers still need to do research to add context and depth to their life stories, whether that’s learning about the town they grew up in, their family history, or something else. 

Meanwhile, biographers rely on archival materials, research, interviews, historical documents, and more to help them write the story about their subject. 

5. Writing style

Because autobiographies are more personal, they often reflect the author’s unique writing style and personality. 

On the other hand, biographies generally strive to be more objective, with a focus on a cohesive, well-researched narrative. (But to be clear: they can still be very engaging!)

Where do memoirs fit in? 

We’ve learned about the differences and similarities between autobiographies and biographies, so where do memoirs fit into the puzzle? 

Like an autobiography, a memoir is written by the subject of the book. Both genres tend to focus on the author’s personal life, are written in the first person, and can be highly subjective. 

However, where autobiography vs memoir differs is partially in the scope of the book. An autobiography often encompasses most of the author’s life, while a memoir is likely to focus on one specific event, theme, or period in the author’s life. 

Memoirs also adhere less to chronological storytelling than autobiographies do. They can jump around in time and tend to be centered more on themes, reflection, or specific, impactful moments in the author’s life. 

In summary, you can think of memoirs as even more personal than autobiographies, focusing on a selected part of the writer’s life. They’re also more likely than autobiographies to be written by folks who aren’t famous. 

Final thoughts

While biographies, autobiographies and memoirs all tell a subject’s life story, they do it in different ways. The type of genre you’d like to read (or write) will be contingent on what you’d like to learn about your chosen subject. 

If you’re interested in writing your own memoir, autobiography or memoir, we can help you do it. Simply schedule a book consultation to get started. 

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Biography vs Autobiography: Similarities and Differences

A biography is an account of someone’s life story that is written by an author who is not the subject of the nook. An autobiography, on the other hand, involves an individual narrating their own life experiences.

The differences between biographies and autobiographies relate most prominently to the authorhship:

• Autobiography: When you read an autobiography, you’re getting the author’s own interpretation of their life.
• Biography: When you read a biography, you experience the subject’s life through someone else’s lens (Schiffrin & Brockmeier, 2012).

Biography vs Autobiography

1. biography.

A biography is a detailed account of a person’s life, scripted by an author who is not the person who is featured in the text itself.

This type of life story focuses both on factual events in the person’s life, such as birth, education, work, and death, but often also delves into personal aspects like experiences, relationships, and significant achievements.

It may also weave-in cultural and contextual factors that help illuminate the person’s motivations and core values .

Origins of Biographies

The concept of biography as a literary genre dates back to antiquity. Such works were primarily used to capture the lives of dignified individuals, mainly rulers and war heroes.

Suetonius’s Lives of the Caesars and Plutarch’s Parallel Lives are landmark examples from this ancient period (Sweet, 2010).

The popularity of biographical works only grew in the ensuing centuries, and they became a prominent part of many cultures’ literary traditions. 

Into the 18th century and during the Enlightenment, biographies began to present a more balanced portrayal of the subject. They would present both their strengths and flaws, providing a holistic perspective on the subject.

Dr. Samuel Johnson’s compilation of English poets biographies, Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets (1779-1781) ushered in a new era of biography writing by focusing on examining human nature (Ditchfield, 2018).

In the modern era, the genre has evolved and broadened, encompassing a diverse range of figures from all walks of life – there’s a biography in every niche imaginable, with each offering readers an in-depth exploration of their lives, their struggles, and their triumphs.

This demonstrates the enduring appeal of biographies and their value in providing snapshots of history through individual lenses.

Key Characteristics of Biographies

Examples of biographies.

Title: The Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets Author: Dr. Samuel Johnson   Description: Dr. Johnson’s work profiles the lives of 52 poets from the 17th and 18th centuries, including John Milton and Alexander Pope. He critiques not just the works, but also explores their personal lives and the sociopolitical contexts of their times (Johnson, 1781). Johnson’s study is invaluable for its integrated historic and biographic approach.

Title: The Life of Samuel Johnson Author: James Boswell   Description: This work by Boswell explores, in great depth, the life of his friend and mentor, Dr. Samuel Johnson. The biography offers a compelling portrayal of Dr. Johnson’s life, character, eccentricities, and intellectual prowess (Boswell, 1791). Boswell’s vivid account creates a near-physical presence of Johnson to the readers, making it one of the greatest biographies in English literature.

Title: The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt Author: Edmund Morris   Description: In this Pulitzer Prize-winning biography, Morris chronicles the early life of Theodore Roosevelt until his ascension to the U.S presidency. The work brilliantly captures Roosevelt’s extraordinary career and his transformation from a frail asthmatic boy into a robust and vigorous leader (Morris, 1979). Morris accurately represents Roosevelt’s indomitable spirit, making it an engaging and educational read.

Title: Steve Jobs Author: Walter Isaacson Description: This comprehensive biography provides a deep-dive into the life and career of Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple. Isaacson had unparalleled access to Jobs and those closest to him, thus presenting an intimate and detailed account. He explores Jobs’ professional endeavors as well as his personal life, revealing his ambition, intensity, and visionary mind that revolutionized several high-tech industries (Isaacson, 2011).

Title: Alexander Hamilton Author: Ron Chernow Description: Ron Chernow provides a sweeping narrative of one of America’s most compelling founding fathers, Alexander Hamilton. Chernow combines extensive research with a flair for storytelling, charting Hamilton’s evolution from an orphan into a political genius. The book sheds light on Hamilton’s crucial role in the formation of the United States’ financial system and his political ideologies (Chernow, 2004).

2. Autobiography

An autobiography is a self-written record of someone’s own life. It is a personal narrative in which the author writes about their life from their own perspective.

Autobiographies are usually centered around the author’s personal experiences, including key milestones, challenges, and achievements (Eakin, 2015).

They’re also often a defense of the person’s perspective (especially in political autobiographies) or insight into their thought processes, which can make them very intimate.

Origins of Autobiographies

The term ‘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’.

Pioneering examples of the genre form include Thomas De Quincey’s Confessions of an English Opium-Eater (1821) and the memoirs by veterans of the Napoleonic Wars (Lejeune, 2016).

However, apart from these early instances, autobiographies have been composed by a wide array of individuals from history. 

In the early 20th century, the genre witnessed major transformations, and autobiographies started to cover a broader spectrum of experiences, including trauma, struggles, and successes.

‘Black Boy’ by Richard Wright, for instance, shares the author’s experiences with racism and his journey towards developing a literary career (Wright, 1945).

This was followed by a host of autobiographies by public figures sharing their diverse stories, such as Ernest Hemingway’s ‘A Moveable Feast’, depicting his days as a struggling young writer in Paris (Hemingway, 1964). 

Autobiography as a genre has continued to evolve over the years, and a variety of forms have emerged to communicate individual experiences globally.

As history has progressed, we see more and more people with diverse perspectives sharing their stories, broadening our understanding of the human experience (Smith & Watson, 2010).

Key Characteristics of Autobiographies 

Examples of autobiographies.

Title: Long Walk to Freedom Author: Nelson Mandela   Description: “Long Walk to Freedom” provides an in-depth exploration of ex-President Nelson Mandela, his political journey, and his stand against apartheid in South Africa. The biography offers a unique perspective into Mandela’s noble character, his indomitable spirit, and his commitment to justice when faced with grave adversities (Mandela, 1995). Mandela serves as one of our times’ great moral and political leaders through this biography.

Title: The Diary of a Young Girl Author: Anne Frank  Description: This biography provides a startling firsthand account of a young Jewish girl named Anne Frank, who with her family, hid from the Nazis in Amsterdam during World War II. Her diary entries offer profound insights into the fear, hope, and resilience she demonstrated during her two years in hiding (Frank, 1947). Frank’s posthumous biographical record serves as a reminder of the injustices of the past and as a symbol of endurance in the face of oppression.

Title: I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings Author: Maya Angelou  Description: This moving autobiography charts Maya Angelou’s early life, from experiencing racial discrimination in the South to becoming the first black streetcar conductor in San Francisco. Angelou portrays her journey of self-discovery and overcoming traumatic experiences, including racial prejudice and personal trauma, with remarkable strength and grace. Her story is one of resilience, and it speaks powerfully about finding one’s voice (Angelou, 1969). 

Title: Night Author: Elie Wiesel  Description: “Night” is Wiesel’s personal account of his experiences in Nazi concentration camps during World War II with his father. This heartbreaking narrative describes not only physical hardship and cruel atrocities but also examines the loss of innocence and the struggle to maintain faith in humanity. It stands as a testament to human resilience in the face of unimaginable horror (Wiesel, 1960).

Title: Dreams from My Father Author: Barack Obama Description: In this engaging memoir, the 44th President of the United States narrates the story of his diverse background and early life. The narrative extends from his birth in Hawaii to his first visit to Kenya, from dealing with racial identity to self-discovery. “Dreams from My Father” not only provides personal insights about Obama’s life and values but also discusses issues of race, identity, and purpose (Obama, 1995).

Similarities and Differences Between Biographies and Autobiographies

While both biographies and autobiographies are excellent sources of information and entertainment about significant figures in history (or the present!), they serve different purposes. By knowing the different purposes of each, we can develop stronger media literacy , understanding what the intention of the author is, and how we should approach the text.

Angelou, M. (1969). I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings . Random House.

Baker, J., Davis, E., & Thompson, K. (2013). Reflection and Emotions in Autobiography . Chicago University Press.

Boswell, J. (1791). The Life of Samuel Johnson . J.R. Taylor.

Brown, J., & Brown, S. (2018). Thematic Focus in Autobiography Writing . Princeton University Press.

Chernow, R. (2004). Alexander Hamilton . Penguin Books.

Ditchfield, S. (2018). Extracting the Domestic from the Didactic: Transmission and Translation of the Sacred in The Lives of the Ancient Fathers (1672–1675). Church History and Religious Culture, 98 (1), 28-50.

Eakin, P. J. (2015). How Our Lives Become Stories: Making Selves . Cornell University Press.

Frank, A. (1947). The Diary of a Young Girl . Contact Publishing.

Hemingway, E. (1964). A Moveable Feast . Charles Scribner’s Sons.

Isaacson, W. (2011). Steve Jobs . Simon & Schuster.

Johnson, M., & Johnson, S. (2017). A Comprehensive Guide to Biography Writing . New York: Penguin.

Johnson, S. (1781). The Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets . Printed by C. Bathurst, J. Buckland [and 28 others in London].

Jones, B. (2015). The Art of Writing Biographies: An Objective Approach . Oxford University Press.

Lejeune, P. (2016). On Autobiography . University of Minnesota Press.

Mandela, N. (1995). Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela . Macdonald Purnell.

Miller, R. (2014). The Self as the Subject: Autobiography Writing . Stanford University Press.

Morris, E. (1979). The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt . Coward, McCann & Geoghegan.

Obama, B. (1995). Dreams from My Father: A Story of Race and Inheritance . Crown Publishing Group.

Schiffrin D., & Brockmeier J. (2012). Narrative Identity and Autobiographical Recall. Royal Institute of Philosophy Supplements, 70 , 113-144.

Smith, J., Davis, M., & Thompson, S. (2012). Third Party Narratives: An Exploration of Biography Writing . Cambridge University Press.

Smith, S., & Watson, J. (2010). Reading Autobiography: A Guide for Interpreting Life Narratives . University of Minnesota Press.

Sweet, R. (2010). Biographical Dictionaries and Historiography. Bibliothèque d’Humanisme et Renaissance, 72 (2), 355–368.

Wiesel, E. (1960). Night . Hill & Wang.

Williams, T. (2019). The Importance of Facts in Biographies . HarperCollins.

Wright, R. (1945). Black Boy: A Record of Childhood and Youth . Harper & Brothers.

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Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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Home » Writing » Autobiography vs. Biography vs. Memoir

What is a Biography?

A biography, also called a bio, is a non-fiction piece of work giving an objective account of a person’s life. The main difference between a biography vs. an autobiography is that the author of a biography is not the subject. A biography could be someone still living today, or it could be the subject of a person who lived years ago.

Biographies include details of key events that shaped the subject’s life, and information about their birthplace, education, work, and relationships. Biographers use a number of research sources, including interviews, letters, diaries, photographs, essays, reference books, and newspapers. While a biography is usually in the written form, it can be produced in other formats such as music composition or film.

If the target person of the biography is not alive, then the storytelling requires an immense amount of research. Interviews might be required to collect information from historical experts, people who knew the person (e.g., friends and family), or reading other older accounts from other people who wrote about the person in previous years. In biographies where the person is still alive, the writer can conduct several interviews with the target person to gain insight on their life.

The goal of a biography is to take the reader through the life story of the person, including their childhood into adolescence and teenage years, and then their early adult life into the rest of their years. The biography tells a story of how the person learned life’s lessons and the ways the person navigated the world. It should give the reader a clear picture of the person’s personality, traits, and their interaction in the world.

Biographies can also be focused on groups of people and not just one person. For example, a biography can be a historical account of a group of people from hundreds of years ago. This group could have the main person who was a part of the group, and the author writes about the group to tell a story of how they shaped the world.

Fictional biographies mix some true historical accounts with events to help improve the story. Think of fictional biographies as movies that display a warning that the story is made of real characters, but some events are fictional to add to the storyline and entertainment value. A lot of research still goes into a fictional biography, but the author has more room to create a storyline instead of sticking to factual events.

Examples of famous biographies include:

• His Excellency: George Washington  by Joseph J. Ellis
• Einstein: The Life and Times  by Ronald William Clark
• Princess Diana – A Biography of The Princess of Wales  by Drew L. Crichton

What is an Autobiography?

An autobiography is the story of a person’s life written by that person. Because the author is also the main character of the story, autobiographies are written in the first person. Usually, an autobiography is written by the person who is the subject of the book, but sometimes the autobiography is written by another person. Because an autobiography is usually a life story for the author, the theme can be anything from religious to a personal account to pass on to children.

The purpose of an autobiography is to portray the life experiences and achievements of the author. Therefore, most autobiographies are typically written later in the subject’s life. It’s written from the point of view of the author, so it typically uses first person accounts to describe the story.

An autobiography often begins during early childhood and chronologically details key events throughout the author’s life. Autobiographies usually include information about where a person was born and brought up, their education, career, life experiences, the challenges they faced, and their key achievements.

On rare occasions, an autobiography is created from a person’s diary or memoirs. When diaries are used, the author must organize them to create a chronological and cohesive story. The story might have flashbacks or flashforwards to describe a specific event, but the main storyline should follow chronological order from the author’s early life to their current events.

One of the main differences between an autobiography vs. a biography is that autobiographies tend to be more subjective. That’s because they are written by the subject, and present the facts based on their own memories of a specific situation, which can be biased. The story covers the author’s opinions on specific subjects and provides an account of their feelings as they navigate certain situations. These stories are also very personal because it’s a personal account of the author’s life rather than a biography where a third party writes about a specific person.

Examples of famous autobiographies include:

• The Story of My Life  by Helen Keller
• The Diary of a Young Girl  by Anne Frank
• Losing My Virginity  by Richard Branson

What is a Memoir?

Memoir comes from the French word  mémoire , meaning memory or reminiscence. Similar to an autobiography, a memoir is the story of a person’s life written by that person. These life stories are often from diary entries either from a first-person account or from a close family member or friend with access to personal diaries.

The difference between a memoir vs. an autobiography is that a memoir focuses on reflection and establishing an emotional connection, rather than simply presenting the facts about their life. The author uses their personal knowledge to tell an intimate and emotional story about the private or public happenings in their life. The author could be the person in the story, or it can be written by a close family member or friend who knew the subject person intimately. The topic is intentionally focused and does not include biographical or chronological aspects of the author’s life unless they are meaningful and relevant to the story.

Memoirs come in several types, all of which are written as an emotional account of the target person. They usually tell a story of a person who went through great struggles or faced challenges in a unique way. They can also cover confessionals where the memoir tells the story of the author’s account that contradicts another’s account.

This genre of writing is often stories covering famous people’s lives, such as celebrities. In many memoir projects, the celebrity or person of interest needs help with organization, writing the story, and fleshing out ideas from the person’s diaries. It might take several interviews before the story can be fully outlined and written, so it’s not uncommon for a memoir project to last several months.

Memoirs do not usually require as much research as biographies and autobiographies, because you have the personal accounts in diary entries and documents with the person’s thoughts. It might require several interviews, however, before the diary entries can be organized to give an accurate account on the person’s thoughts and emotions. The story does not necessarily need to be in chronological order compared to an autobiography, but it might be to tell a better story.

Examples of famous memoirs include:

• Angela’s Ashes  by Frank McCourt
• I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings  by Maya Angelou
• Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S.  Grant by Ulysses S. Grant

Autobiography vs. Biography vs. Memoir Comparison Chart

Check out some of our blogs to learn more about memoirs:

• What is a memoir?
• 5 tips for writing a memoir
• Your memoir is your legacy

Ready to get started on your own memoir, autobiography, or biography? Download our free desktop book-making software, BookWright .

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How To Write An Autobiography

Autobiography Vs Biography

Last updated on: May 29, 2023

Autobiography vs. Biography - What are the Differences?

By: Cordon J.

13 min read

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Mar 22, 2023

Have you ever wondered about the differences between an autobiography and a biography?

You may have heard of these two terms before, but do you know how they are different from each other? Unfortunately, many people think that both could be used interchangeably, and that both are the same.

Well, you're in luck, because in this blog, we'll explore autobiographies and biographies and their unique perspectives on people's lives. This blog will go over the key differences between biographies and autobiographies so you can make a decision easily.

So without further delay let’s get started!

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What is an Autobiography?

An autobiography is a book written by someone about their life. Autobiographies are written in the first person throughout because the writer is the protagonist and the main character of the story.

The purpose of writing an autobiography is to provide a detailed account of the narrator's accomplishments and life events.

The autobiography style generally begins with early childhood and proceeds chronologically, listing all of a person's experiences throughout their life.

Autobiographies include information about where someone grew up, their career, life choices, accomplishments, and challenges they overcame.

Related Blog: Click here to discover the various types of autobiography .

Elements of an Autobiography

Let's explore these key components of an autobiography:

• First-person narrative: An autobiography is written in the first person, which means that the author tells their story using the pronoun "I."
• Personal tone: As the author is writing about their own experiences and insights, autobiographies often have a more personal and introspective tone.
• Comprehensive coverage: Autobiographies aim to cover the entire life story of the author, from their childhood to the present. This can include pivotal events such as the author's birth, family life, education, relationships, etc.
• Life experiences and motivations: Autobiography informs the audience about the author's life experiences, motivations, and perspectives. This can include the author's beliefs, values, and goals. 
• ‘The Story of My Life’ by Helen Keller
• ‘The Diary of a Young Girl’ by Anne Frank

Here's a short sample autobiography:

Follow the link to uncover the secrets to writing an astonishing autobiography, with this “ how to write an autobiography ” guide.

What is a Biography?

A biography is a history of a person's life written by someone else. Biographies are often written about famous individuals and personalities like sportsmen, motivational speakers, inspirational figures, etc.

Biographies also cover the subject's entire life. Therefore, it is crucial to include important information about the person's place of birth, education, childhood experiences, partnerships, and so on.

Elements of a Biography

Here are some key components of biography:

• Third-person perspective: Biographies are written in the third-person perspective. That means that the author tells the subject's story using pronouns such as "he," "she," or "they." 
• Chronological order: Biographies are typically organized in chronological order. It means that biographies are structured according to the timeline of the subject's life. 
• Formal and impersonal tone: Biographies are often more formal and impersonal in tone than autobiographies. The author may use a more scholarly writing style and avoid revealing personal thoughts and feelings. 
• Comprehensive coverage: Biographies are meant to provide a comprehensive account of the subject's life. It covers all of the important events and milestones in their life, from their childhood to their achievements, and legacy. 
• Accuracy: Biographies are often used as historical or educational resources. Therefore, it is important that the information presented is accurate and well-researched. 
• ‘His Excellency: George Washington’ by Joseph J. Ellis
• ‘Einstein: The Life and Times’ by Ronald William Clark

Here is a short biography sample:

Looking for an exceptional biography to read? Click on the link to read one for inspiration!

Autobiography vs. Biography - Key Differences

There are a few significant distinctions between biographies and autobiographies, despite the fact that they may appear to be similar.

Let’s take a look at some significant and key differences between the two.

Watch the video below to gain a more profound comprehension of autobiography vs biography.

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Similarities between an Autobiography and a Biography

Although they are distinct genres, biographies and autobiographies do have some things in common.

• Primary and Main Goal - The main goal of both types of books is to tell the story and life events of a person's life.
• Non-fiction Works - Autobiographies and biographies are nonfiction works that document significant events in a person's life. You can safely say that that is a kind of nonfiction novel that presents the facts.
• Prominent Figures as Subjects - Biography or autobiography is typically used to tell the stories of well-known people who have made remarkable achievements. Based on these similarities, many people wrongly think that they are the same.

Based on these similarities, many people wrongly think that they are the same.

Get a closer look at this autobiography vs biography worksheet we've designed for you!

Autobiography vs Biography Worksheet

Are Autobiography and Memoir the Same?

A biography includes the life of an individual, whereas a memoir is not necessarily an autobiography.

An autobiography, as the name implies, is a book that includes details like the person’s life story in chronological order. A formal, non-fiction style is employed.

A memoir focuses on a specific incident or component of someone's life rather than the complete narrative. Writing a memoir is more casual and emotional in nature.

Autobiography vs. Biography vs. Memoir

Here is a complete comparison chart that displays the key differences between all three kinds of works.

Curious to learn the differences between autobiographies and memoirs in detail? If so, click on this link to get your questions answered!

To sum up, in an autobiography, the subject is telling a story about their own life. In a biography, someone else tells the story of someone's life. Both are important and interesting, but they both have different perspectives to offer. 

With so many options out there, we hope this blog helps narrow your search for one that best suits your interests!

Still, feeling unsure about how to start your autobiography or biography? MyPerfectPaper.net can help! 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which is better: biography or autobiography.

Both of these works are different from each other so no one could say for sure which one is better. Both are written for the same purpose and, therefore, besides the usual differences, both of them serve an important purpose.

What are the 4 types of biography?

Here are the 4 types of biography;

• Historical fiction
• Academic biography
• Fictional academic
• Prophetic biography

All 4 are different from each other and have different purposes also.

What is the difference between an autobiography and an autobiographical narrative?

An autobiography is a complete account of a person’s life, written and told in the person’s own words. However, when only a few events are narrated, it becomes an autobiographical narrative.

Is autobiography a narrative?

An autobiography is a nonfiction narrative. It means that though the stories and events are true it is told in a storytelling format.

How long is an autobiography?

Usually, an autobiography is between 200 to 400 pages long.

Can a book be both biography and autobiography?

No, a book cannot be both biography and an autobiography at the same time. A biography is a written account of someone's life as written by someone else. In contrast, an autobiography is a written account of someone's life written by the person themselves.

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• How To Write An Autobiography: Tips, Ideas & Guidelines to Write Your Life Story

• Different Types of Autobiography Writing With Examples

• How to Write an Autobiography Format Easily?

• Autobiography vs. Memoir - How Are They Different?

• Autobiography Examples: Inspiration & Guidelines to Get You Started

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Difference Between Biography and Autobiography

The written accounts of people’s lives have always been a source of inspiration, knowledge, and understanding of history and human experiences. Two common forms of such literary works are biography and autobiography. While they both delve into the lives of individuals, there are significant differences between the two genres. In this article, we will explore the dissimilarities between biography and autobiography, understanding their definitions, characteristics, and significance as unique forms of storytelling.

Table of Contents

The main difference between Biography and Autobiography is that a biography is a written account of a person’s life written by someone else, while an autobiography is a written account of a person’s life written by the individual themselves.

Below is a table highlighting the possible differences between a Biography and an Autobiography:

What is a Biography?

A biography is a written account of a person’s life, typically written by someone else. It is an objective narrative that delves into the person’s background, experiences, achievements, challenges, and impact on society. Biographies often aim to provide a comprehensive and unbiased view of the subject’s life, capturing the essence of their character and accomplishments.

Characteristics of Biographies

• Third-Person Perspective: Biographies are usually written in the third person, maintaining a degree of detachment between the author and the subject.
• Research and Fact-Based: Biographers extensively research and verify the information presented, ensuring accuracy and authenticity.
• External Insight: Biographers analyze the subject’s life from an outsider’s perspective, often incorporating historical and cultural context.

Importance of Biographies

Biographies hold significant value in various ways:

• Preserving History: Biographies document the lives of notable individuals, preserving their legacy for future generations.
• Inspiration: Reading about the lives of accomplished individuals can inspire and motivate readers to overcome challenges and achieve greatness.
• Understanding Human Nature: Biographies provide insights into human emotions, behaviors, and decision-making processes.

What is an Autobiography?

An autobiography, on the other hand, is a self-written account of a person’s life. It offers a first-hand perspective as the author narrates their own experiences, memories, and reflections. Autobiographies are deeply personal and provide an intimate understanding of the author’s thoughts and emotions.

Characteristics of Autobiographies

• First-Person Perspective: Autobiographies are written in the first person, offering a direct connection between the author and the reader.
• Subjective Narration: Authors infuse their personal feelings, perspectives, and interpretations into the narrative.
• Reflection and Introspection: Autobiographies often include self-reflection and introspection, allowing readers to understand the author’s growth and development.

Importance of Autobiographies

Autobiographies hold significance for various reasons:

• Personal Connection: Readers can emotionally connect with the author’s experiences and empathize with their journey.
• Insight into Personal Development: Autobiographies provide insights into how life experiences shape an individual’s character and choices.
• Authenticity: Being a firsthand account, autobiographies are considered highly authentic and genuine.

Key Biography vs. Autobiography Differences

Perspective.

The primary difference between biography and autobiography lies in the perspective of the narrative. Biographies are written by someone else, providing an external view of the subject’s life, while autobiographies are self-written, offering a subjective and personal viewpoint.

In biographies, the author is an outsider who researches and writes about the subject’s life. In contrast, autobiographies are authored by the individual whose life is being depicted.

Reliability

Biographies are often regarded as more reliable since they are based on extensive research and multiple sources. Autobiographies, while authentic, may carry some degree of bias and subjectivity.

Biographies typically cover the entire life of the subject, including early life, achievements, and later years. Autobiographies, on the other hand, may focus on specific life events or periods.

Biographies target a broader audience, offering an impartial account of the subject’s life. Autobiographies may attract readers who seek a personal connection with the author’s experiences.

Writing Styles of Biography and Autobiography

Narrative approach.

Biographies often use a chronological approach, presenting events in the order they occurred. Autobiographies may use a more fluid and reflective approach, emphasizing personal experiences and emotions.

Third-Person vs. First-Person

Biographies adopt the third-person perspective, providing objectivity. Autobiographies, as a first-person account, offer a sense of intimacy and direct involvement.

Impact and Significance of Biography and Autobiography

Both biography and autobiography play crucial roles in literature and history:

• Impact: Biographies provide insights into the lives of historical figures, leaders, and influential individuals, offering valuable lessons and inspiration for readers.
• Significance: They contribute to preserving and understanding the past, shaping collective memory, and promoting empathy and understanding of diverse experiences.

Autobiography:

• Impact: Autobiographies offer a direct and personal perspective, enabling readers to connect intimately with the author’s life journey, struggles, and achievements.
• Significance: Autobiographies empower individuals to share their unique stories, inspiring others, fostering self-reflection, and promoting the importance of personal narratives in human history.

Examples of Famous Biographies and Autobiographies

Famous biographies.

• Nelson Mandela: “Long Walk to Freedom”
• Steve Jobs: “Steve Jobs”
• Albert Einstein: “Einstein: His Life and Universe”

Famous Autobiographies

• Maya Angelou: “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings”
• Benjamin Franklin: “The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin”
• Malala Yousafzai: “I Am Malala”

In conclusion, the difference between biography and autobiography lies in the perspective, authorship, and focus of the narrative. Biographies are written by others, providing an objective account of a person’s life, while autobiographies are authored by the subject, offering a subjective and personal viewpoint. Both genres contribute significantly to literature and history, presenting diverse perspectives on the lives of remarkable individuals and providing readers with valuable insights into the human experience. Whether it is the impartiality of biographies or the intimate self-reflection of autobiographies, these literary forms enrich our understanding of the world and the people who shape it.

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Autobiography vs. Biography vs. Memoir: What’s the Difference?

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Autobiographies, biographies, and memoirs. These are the three main formats that tell a real person’s life story.

But unless you’re in the know, it can be a little confusing to tell the difference between each one. While they all serve a similar purpose, they each have distinctions that set them apart from one another.

In this post, I’ll explain the differences between autobiographies, biographies, and memoirs. And to clear up any confusion, I’ll provide some famous examples of each one.

Table of Contents

Autobiography vs. Biography vs. Memoir

Autobiographies.

An autobiography is an account of a person’s life, written by that person. The word originates from the Greek’ auto’, ‘bios’ and ‘graphein’, meaning ‘self,’ ‘life,’ and ‘to write.’

Since the narrator is also the subject of the story, autobiographies tend to be written in the first person.

The majority of autobiographies begin by documenting childhood experiences, working their way chronologically upwards through the decades. The author will include major and minor events that have shaped their lives and stood out to them on their journey.

A detailed autobiography will cover things like a person’s earliest memories, early family life, and upbringing. They might share stories from their education, their careers, and their relationships, as well as triumphs and challenges they’ve faced along the way.

Since an autobiography is a life story, most people wait until their later years before they pen their own, but this isn’t always true. There are plenty of autobiographies written by younger people too. Anyone that has led an interesting life can write an autobiography.  

Here’s a few examples of autobiographies written by famous people:

• Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin by Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin wrote his autobiography from 1771 to 1790. It tells the fascinating tale of his rise to power, from a boy born into a lower-middle-class family in Boston, Massachusetts, to becoming one of America’s founding fathers.

• Mein Kampf by Adolf Hitler

Adolf Hitler’s autobiography Mein Kampf, meaning ‘my struggle,’ gives us a raw and eye-opening look into the unseen life of this mass-murdering dictator. It’s not an easy or lighthearted read by any means. Still, it gives the reader a fascinating insight into his early life, his rise to power, and his own justifications behind his monstrous genocidal policies.

• The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

This is a more unusual example of an autobiography, but it’s an autobiography non the less. Ann Frank’s real-life diary documents her experience as a Jewish teenager who was  forced into hiding  during World War II.

Biographies

Just like an autobiography, a  biography  tells a person’s life story. But in this case, it is written by another author, rather than the person themselves.

Biographies are most often written about famous, notable people who have led interesting lives. They usually include factual details, such as their birthplace, their education, their partners and relationships, and facts about their career.

But a good biography will also cover how key events have shaped a person’s life. Biography authors will compile information from a wide range of sources, including interviews with the person in question or their friends, colleagues, and family members. They may also source information from letters, diaries, past interviews, and periodicals.

Here are a few examples of famous biographies:

• Churchill: A Life by Martin Gilbert

Many authors over the year have written biographies about his iconic British prime minister. Still, it’s Martin Gilbert’s work which has been by far the most successful and celebrated. 

Through years of in-depth research, Gilbert gives readers a comprehensive and honest insight into the life of the man who led Britain through the Second World War.

• Frida: Biography of Frida Kahlo by Hayden Herrera

Hayden Herrera wrote this eye-opening biography of celebrated painter Frida Kahlo back in 1983, and it has since become the most authoritative account of her life in print.

The book documents Kahlo’s struggles and pain, but it also tells of her artistic prowess and her determination to leave a positive influence on the world.  

• Sylvia Plath and Life Before Ted by Andrew Wilson 

Rather than focusing on Sylvia Plath’s painful struggles with mental health and her turbulent marriage to English poet Ted Hughs, this biography tells of Plath’s earlier life, before the pair ever met. Taking information directly from her detailed diary entries, Wilson has complied an insightful picture of the American writer’s early experiences before she found fame.

Taken from the French word for ‘memory,’ a  memoir  is a non-fiction, self-written account of a person’s life. But unlike an autobiography, a memoir focuses much more on the emotional journey rather than chronologically recounting facts and events.

Memoirs are essentially a collection of memories that are important to the author, and they paint an intimate portrait of what it was like to be in their shoes.

Due to the similar nature of memoirs and autobiographies, it’s sometimes hard to denote the difference between the two, especially in the modern era when genres are often blended, and new ways of writing become commonplace.

One key thing to remember is that a memoir is usually less of a timeline of events and more an informal, emotional picture of a person’s life. Memoirs will often focus on things like past regrets and life lessons learned along the way, whereas autobiographies concentrate on facts and things that happened.

Here are a few examples of famous memoirs:

• I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

The American writer and civil rights activist Maya Angelou wrote a total of seven autobiographies and memoirs during her lifetime, but this is the most notable one of them all.

This famous memoir documents the first seventeen years of her life as a young African American woman, and all of the struggles and turmoils she faced and overcame during that time.

• Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

This travel memoir written by the New York Times best-selling author Elizabeth Gilbert was subsequently turned into a blockbuster movie starring Julia Roberts.

It documents Gilbert’s personal journey of rebirth following a painful divorce and invites the reader to share the valuable and life changing lessons she learns along the way.

• Angela’s Ashes by Frank McCourt

Frank McCourt’s moving memoir takes us on an in-depth journey through his childhood years when he lived a profoundly impoverished life in Ireland during the midst of the Great Depression.

It won a 1997 Pulitzer Prize and has also been adapted to the silver screen.

Autobiographies, biographies, and memoirs all do one job: they tell a person’s non-fictional life story. But as you can see, each one is unique in its own way.

Do you have a favorite autobiography, biography, or memoir?

Let us know in the comments below.

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• 6 Tips for Writing Creative Non-Fiction
• 11 Extraordinary Stephen King Writing Tips
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Difference between Biography and Autobiography

When you read a biography or an autobiography, you read about a person’s life, right? So what is the difference between them and which type of writing should you choose when you feel up for such reading? If you are still a bit confused about the difference between biography and autobiography, read this article.

• 1 Summary Table
• 2 Descriptions
• 3 Biography vs Autobiography

Summary Table

Descriptions.

A biography is an account of a person’s life. It is non-fictional and an objective rendering of information about everything that has shaped the individual and has made him/her famous. Biographies are usually written about famous people like writers, artists, movie stars, or people who stood up against an oppressive system. This piece of writing tries to explain the context of their lives and actions – what made them who they are and caused them to write, to act, or to take a stand. This is why the person writing a biography must be very knowledgeable and well-informed. Years of study are required.

A biography normally requires consent from the person it is about or from his/her living relatives. It is written in the third person and the information must be true and checked by the author. The account is objective and it has the purpose of informing the readers.

An autobiography is an account of one’s own life. The subject and the author are one and the same person. This type of writing is usually more subjective and is filled with emotions and personal accounts, impressions, and resolutions which have led to that person’s great achievements. It must not be fictional, but it still is just one person’s opinion on a series of events which may include other people as well. It is written in first person and it is meant to inform and to present a personal point of view.

Biography vs Autobiography

So what is the difference between biography and autobiography?

The main difference between a biography and an autobiography is the author. A biography is written by another person, while the autobiography is written by the subject of the book. This results in a series of small differences that can help you decide which type of account to choose.

To write a biography, the writer will have to collect facts, usually from other people or from other written texts. The author of an autobiography, however, will tell things as he/she experienced them. The biography author is compelled to be objective, while the author writing his own account can present personal opinions.

Access to certain information may be limited to an author who is an outsider, while the author who doubles as the subject can tell you exactly what he/she felt or thought in key moments. Therefore, a biography helps to provide you with clear context, as this information is easier to access. An autobiography, on the other hand, can provide you with clear motive and situation assessments.

The biography author will write in third person, while the autobiography author will write in first person, making the account more personal.

Microsoft 365 Life Hacks > Writing > What is independent publishing?

What is independent publishing?

You are a budding author on the brink of finalizing your manuscript. Once you have completed it, the next step is to shop your work around to literary agents and publishing houses. However, this process can be grueling, competitive, and may end in several rejections. Alternatively, if you aren’t inclined toward the traditional publishing route, you have another option—independent publishing. Learn what independent publishing is, how it differs from traditional publishing, and its benefits for you as an author.

How to publish a book independently

To independently publish your book , you have several options. You can partner with an independent publishing company or a small press, or you can create your own publishing company or small press. Independent publishers establish relationships with the necessary parties required to publish your book, such as editors, printers, distributors, and designers. They guide you through each stage of the process while still allowing you to retain the rights to your book. Working with a smaller publication typically results in a quicker timeline, expediting the publication and distribution of your book.

How does independent publishing differ from traditional publishing and self-publishing?

Given the exclusivity and rigor of traditional publishing, independent publishing may be a viable path to get your book published. Before deciding to pursue independent publishing, it’s important to understand the differences between your available options. The other publishing options include:

Traditional publishing

Traditional publishing involves submitting your book to a literary agent affiliated with one of the major publishing houses. Some of these renowned publishing houses include Penguin Random House, Simon & Schuster, HarperCollins, Hachette Group, and MacMillan Publishers. This is the most competitive route for publishing, as these publishing houses receive countless proposals every year. However, it’s typically the most financially rewarding option. Traditional publishing houses offer advances, royalties for your work, and, most importantly, the opportunity to reach a larger audience.

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Self-publishing

If you choose to self-publish a book, you take on the roles of author, distributor, publisher, and marketer all by yourself. However, you lose the distribution network, financial backing, and additional assistance that traditional publishing offers. This is a suitable option if your goal is to make your work available, but it doesn’t provide significant support.

What is the benefit of publishing independently?

Independent publishing strikes a balance between self-publishing and traditional publishing. You can bypass the competitive hurdles of traditional publishers without sacrificing support during the publishing process. Independent publishers understand the publishing world and provide a team of professionals to assist with your work. You can collaborate with editors, designers, and other experts while retaining creative control over your writing. It enables you to enter the publishing arena, get your book on shelves, and do so on your own terms.

Independent publishing is a worthwhile publishing route, whether you’re a nascent or seasoned author. You receive the support of professionals, facilitating the journey of getting your book into your audience’s hands without giving up creative control. For more help with publishing and editing your writing, learn more writing tips .

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