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What Is a Biographical Essay and How to Write It: Features, Structure, and Examples

• by Anastasiya Yakubovska
• 01.04.2023 05.08.2023
• How to write ...

If you are interested in this genre and you would like to write a biographical essay, then first, I suggest you take a closer look at it and find out:

What Methods Can the Writer Use in Writing a Biographical Essay?

The process of writing a biographical essay is quite time-consuming. To write an essay, it is not enough just to choose a topic, to collect and analyze information. The author’s task is to rethink the information received and transform it into a special essay form.

There are two methods used in writing essays:

• Theoretical.

The theoretical method is used when the main subject of the essay is a problematic situation .

But if a journalist needs to write an essay about an interesting person, then an artistic method is used that allows the writer to reveal the strengths and weaknesses of a person, delve into his or her psychology and understand the character of the hero.

The degree of the artistry of the biographical essay may vary depending on its purpose: one text may be more specific and documentary, while the other may be as creative as possible. Thus, in each essay, there should be both artistic creativity and facts in various proportions (depending on the purpose and subject matter).

Since this article is primarily about a short biographical essay, its average length is about 500 words (standard A4 page).

How to Write a Biographical Essay

As we have already found out, the subject of a portrait or biographical essay is a person – not a fictional hero, but a person from real life. And the author’s task is to create a “portrait” of this person based on the available facts from the biography.

Reading the essay, the audience should understand:

• Who is the main character?
• What are his/her values?
• What influenced his or her formation as a personality?
• What are the hero’s strengths and weaknesses?
• The reader needs to understand the hero’s inner world and character.

First, the biographical essay should indicate basic information about the hero: first name, last name, date and place of birth, origin, activities, and main achievements. But it shouldn’t look like listing personal data.

In the essay, in the first place is the hero’s character and inner world. Therefore, the writer needs, through facts taken from the hero’s biography, to reveal, for example, the reasons for his actions, to try to understand how the hero thought when he was in various life situations, how he interacted with other people, etc.

As you can see, essay writing is more of a creative process.

The essay is a mirror of our society and its values.

First, you will need to study all the information about the person you are interested in, and only then choose the most striking and remarkable facts, and events from the hero’s life. In your biographical essay, write how these events affected the character.

After all the information has been collected, you should decide how to structure your essay:

• Will you talk about the hero of the essay in chronological order , that is, describe phenomena, and events from human life in their time sequence?
• Or will you first tell about the most interesting facts from his or her biography, and only then describe the general picture of the hero’s life?
• Or build your narrative on the principle of logical sequence , which is typical for essay analysis and essay research.

Modern biographical essays use a mixed narrative structure.

Of course, the most valuable source of information for a biographical essay will be its primary source – an interview with the hero of the story. If this is not possible, then use only reliable, confirmed, and accurate information. It can be:

• personal diaries and letters;
• autobiography;
• photo and film documents related to the life of the hero and his environment;
• personal property;
• and, of course, information from the Internet (but only trusted, official sources).

The best biographies are obtained when the journalist is personally acquainted with the person whose life he describes when he can observe the behavior of this person, and be a witness to any of his actions. This enriches the material with the author’s impressions, allowing the writer to point out some subtle details in the appearance or character of the hero that other people might not have noticed. Observation is a very effective way of obtaining information, but, unfortunately, it can not always be used. Therefore, the main source of information for modern biographical essays is most often an interview with the hero of a future publication.

The author of the essay, at his discretion, selects facts from the life of the hero, and based on this information creates a holistic image of the hero and then gives the reader the right to draw conclusions, to form a personal opinion about the person.

HENRY MORE: A BIOGRAPHICAL ESSAY

By ROBERT CROCKER 

Henry More was born in Grantham, Lincolnshire, in October 1614, the seventh son of Alexander More, a scion of a large and honourable northern landed family. Brought up in a large Calvinist gentry household, More was sent as a child to the local grammar school in Grantham. After revealing something of his intellectual abilities there, at fourteen his education was taken in hand by a learned uncle, Gabriel More, sometime Fellow of Christ’s College in Cambridge, and sent to Eton ‘to perfect his Latin’. In a little autobiography included in the General Preface to his Opera omnia (1679), More describes how his rather thoughtful and studious nature early led him into conflict with his uncle and brother over the doctrine of predestination – he was the chastised for ‘a forwardness in philosophizing’. Entered under Robert Gell at Christ’s in Cambridge in late 1631, More shows himself to have been a gifted poet and an acute and sensitive student, early taking up the difficult subject of metaphysics as the main focus of his energies. However, by the time he graduated, like a number of other intellectual Puritans of his generation, he had become disillusioned with the scholastic masters of his metaphysical studies, and particularly with the apparent incompatibility between their teaching on the nature and origin of the soul and the doctrines of the Church.  Perhaps influenced by Gell, who was clearly interested in the Greek Fathers and their humanist and spiritualist successors, More began to study the ‘Platonists and mystical divines’, and read in them an approach to the problem of the soul much more attuned, he considered, to the doctrines of the Church. On learning what they had to say about the ‘purgative course that is previous to the illuminative’, More was particularly inspired, he tells us, by the Theologia Germanica, with its practical emphasis on ‘extinguishing the human will’ in order to live only by and through the divine. In his General Preface More then recounts how over the next four years (1636-40) he embarked on a period of ‘Holy Discipline and Conflict’, during which time he felt the ‘divine principle’ within him gradually triumph over the ‘animal nature’. This freed him, he declares, from the ‘insatiable Desire and Thirst… after the knowledge of things’ which had possessed him during his first inquisitive but unhappy years of study.

The biographical essay example (expert):

Stephen Hawking Stephen Hawking was a scientist known for his work with black holes and relativity, and the author of popular science books like ‘A Brief History of Time.’ Hawking was born on January 8, 1942, in Oxford, England. His birthday was also the 300th anniversary of the death of Galileo — long a source of pride for the noted physicist. The eldest of Frank and Isobel Hawking’s four children, Hawking was born into a family of thinkers. His Scottish mother earned her way into Oxford University in the 1930s — a time when few women were able to go to college. His father, another Oxford graduate, was a respected medical researcher with a specialty in tropical diseases. Hawking’s birth came at an inopportune time for his parents, who didn’t have much money. The political climate was also tense, as England was dealing with World War II and the onslaught of German bombs in London, where the couple was living as Frank Hawking undertook research in medicine. In an effort to seek a safer place, Isobel returned to Oxford to have the couple’s first child. The Hawkings would go on to have two other children, Mary and Philippa. And their second son, Edward, was adopted in 1956. The Hawkings, as one close family friend described them, were an “eccentric” bunch. Dinner was often eaten in silence, each of the Hawkings intently reading a book. The family car was an old London taxi, and their home in St. Albans was a three-story fixer-upper that never quite got fixed. The Hawkings also housed bees in the basement and produced fireworks in the greenhouse. Source biography.com

Adele Singer Adele is a Grammy Award-winning artist whose throwback, soulful sound has made her an international success with hits like “Rolling in the Deep,” “Someone Like You” and “Hello.” Adele is a British singer-songwriter who has sold millions of albums worldwide and won a total of 15 Grammys as well as an Oscar. Adele’s first two albums, 19 and 21 , earned her critical praise and a level of commercial success unsurpassed among her peers. After becoming a mom in 2012, Adele returned to the charts with the ballad “Hello” in 2015, the lead single from what was dubbed her comeback album 25 . In 2017, she won five Grammys for her work on 25 , including album, record and song of the year. Early Life, Education and Influences Adele Laurie Blue Adkins was born on May 5, 1988, in North London, England. Adele was the only child of Penny Adkins, an “arty mom” who was just 18 at the time of her birth, and a Welsh father, Mark Evans, who left the family when Adele was only four years old. Evans remained in contact with his daughter up until her teen years, when his problems with alcohol and increasing estrangement from his daughter caused their relationship to deteriorate. By contrast, Adele grew close to her mom, who encouraged her young daughter “to explore, and not to stick with one thing.” Early on, Adele developed a passion for music. She gravitated toward the songs of Lauryn Hill, Mary J. Blige and Destiny’s Child. But her true, eye-opening moment came when she was 15 and she happened upon a collection of Etta James and Ella Fitzgerald records at a local shop. “There was no musical heritage in our family,” Adele told The Telegraph in a 2008 interview. “Chart music was all I ever knew. So when I listened to the Ettas and the Ellas, it sounds so cheesy, but it was like an awakening. I was like, oh, right, some people have proper longevity and are legends. I was so inspired that as a 15-year-old I was listening to music that had been made in the ’40s.” While clearly bright, Adele wasn’t oriented towards traditional classroom settings. Instead, her mother enrolled her in the BRIT School for Performing Arts & Technology, which counts Amy Winehouse as an alum. While at school, Adele cut a three-track demo for a class project that was eventually posted on her MySpace page. When executives at XL Recordings heard the tracks, they contacted the singer and, in November 2006, just four months after Adele had graduated school, signed her to a record deal. Source https://www.biography.com/musicians/adele

Naziyah Mahmood, Rocket Scientist, Multi Black Belt, Renaissance Woman Where to start with this amazing woman? Scientist for the European Space Agency? Check. Artist and poet? Check. Martial artist fluent in several forms? Check. Woman of peace and faith? Check. Champion of geeks everywhere: triple check. “If you let them bully you once, they will do it again and again.” Her father told her that, and her path of self-determination, unyielding curiosity, and fierce protectiveness of everybody’s right to fit outside someone else’s box has grown ever since. Nayizah grew up the daughter of an Englishwoman and a Pakistani father in none-too-hospitable Glasgow, Scotland. One of her earliest memories is of her mother coming home bloodied and crying after a vicious hate attack. Her father put Nayizah and her siblings into martial arts classes, the implicit promise being that no one in the Mahmood family would be bloodied again. Did we neglect to mention she is also trained in Ninjitsu? When kids talk about role models and superheroines, they need look If I don’t train, I get really restless. I train in the open ground in any weather. I would come home after training in the rain and get told off by my mum! I’ve trained through storms before. When something like this becomes a part of you, you just can’t let it go.”no further than Naziyah Mahmood. She was born with a visual impairment that makes it difficult for her to distinguish a person’s facial features unless at close range… yet has trained so diligently that she can stop a sword blade an inch from someone’s skin. This devout Muslim counts as her influences Miyamoto Musashi (“He was an eccentric and his methods were odd, but it just made him more likable!”), Hattori Hanzo, Tomore Gozenshe (a female Samurai warrior), and the one and only Bruce Lee. All the things I do link together very beautifully and balance out. So, martial arts master. That’d be enough for tons of people. But Ms. Mahmood decided, Why not get a Masters in Space Mission Analysis and Design, with honors in Physics/Astrophysics? And enter poetry contests, and contend with the prejudices of those who looked down on a woman of Muslim faith embracing the world of science, and educate people (often without even trying to) around the world about the great buffet that is life, creativity, possibility, and joy. I like that feeling of being on the edge of learning.

A biographical essay, in addition to entertaining and informative tasks, performs another important function: it helps readers to form their own moral compass and values.

In an essay about the lives of other people, the writer shows examples of how we can find a way out of a difficult life situation, what is the secret of happiness and success, what is the meaning of life, what is good and evil, and where is the line that cannot be crossed, and more.

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How to write a biography essay

• March 29, 2022

A biography essay is a type of academic writing that tells the story of someone’s life, typically focusing on their achievements, struggles, and impact on the world.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to write a compelling biography essay that engages readers and tells the story of a person’s life in a meaningful way.

Choose a person to write a biography

First you need to choose a person to write about. The person should have made significant contributions to his/her respective field. This person should also be well-known as you will need resources to find information.

For this guide, we will be writing our biography essay on French-Algerian philosopher and author Albert Camus . There’re some reasons why Albert Camus is a suitable topic for a biography essay:

• He is an influential person in his field.
• He has many works that we can refer to in our essay .​
• There are many reliable sources where we can find information about him. ​

Gather information on the person

You need some information about your the person you chose. While getting this information, pay attention to two main factors: the credibility of your source and what information you are putting in your essay.

Credibility of your source

• Does this source have any authors and/or editors listed?
• Does this source cite or link to trustworthy sources?​
• Is this source prepared professionally?​

If your sources check all the boxes, they are most likely reliable sources . However, if a source doesn’t have any authors, has no citation, or is poorly written, consider it risky.

Information included in the essay

• Is this information useful in the context of my essay?
• Is this development remarkable in my subject’s life story? ​

You can definitely add the information if they meet these criteria. If not, it’s best to keep them out.

Use of important information on the person

Now, we will be choosing information from Albert Camus’ life story to include in our biography essay. 

• Albert Camus was born on 7 November 1913 in French Algeria. (We choose to include this information because it is reasonable to start with this line for a biography essay.)
• He published his essay The Myth of Sisyphus in the year 1942. (This information is essential because this essay explains his notion of “the absurd,” a philosophy he is widely known for.)​
• He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1957. (This event is a significant acknowledgment of his works; therefore, it should be included.)​
• He died on 4 January 1960 in France. (A reasonable ending point for a biography essay.) ​

Create an outline

Preparing an outline is essential for biography essays just like any other essay . You can follow our typical outline preparing process in this step because biography essays also adhere to the traditional essay structure.

Biography Essay Outline Example

Albert Camus Biography Essay

• Open with a curious quote by Albert Camus
• Explain how Camus contributed to his field
• Further explore Albert Camus' stance on the field
• Present your thesis statement
• Topic sentence of your paragraph
• Albert's accomplishments and more personal information
• Closing sentence
• Restate your thesis statement
• Mention the importance of Albert Camus
• Finish your essay with memorable concluding sentences by highlighting Camus' importance

Important reminder

Write an introduction.

The introduction paragraph is crucial. Because you need to grab the reader’s attention at this part. This is where a hook sentence is useful. With a hook sentence , you can start your essay in multiple interesting directions for you reader: 

• Start your introduction with a quote from your subject, especially one that reveals their personality.
• Start with an intriguing story or an interesting anecdote about your subject. ​
• Start by informing the reader about a significant accomplishment of your subject.​

Biography essay introduction example

“You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life.” This is a quote by French-Algerian philosopher, writer, and journalist Albert Camus. Camus was born in French Algeria on 7 November 1913. Opening: Intriguing quote that grabs the reader’s attention and summarizes Camus’ philosophy He is one of the most prominent writers of absurdist philosophical thought. Subject: A sentence which explains the subject’s contribution to their field. Through his works, Camus contributed to the rise of the absurdist philosophy, which was essentially a response to nihilism. Stance: Further explanation of the subject’s stance on the field He wrote works that conveyed an abiding faith in the human race’s displaced but still righteous situation. Thesis statement: You highlight your stand and main focus of the essay.

Biography essay body paragraphs

This is the section where the results of your research come in. Like other types of essays, body paragraphs are the central part of your biography essay (see biography essay example ).

Through these paragraphs, you will discuss the milestones in your subject’s life, their accomplishments, and their works.

Biography essay body paragraph example

During his literary career, Camus published his works in three cycles. In each cycle, he published a novel, an essay, and a play. The first cycle of his works was on “the absurd,” and they were published from 1942 to 1944. Topic sentence: Further exploration of the claim presented in the introduction. This cycle’s works were some of his most significant works: The Stranger as the novel, The Myth of Sisyphus as the essay, and Caligula as the play. Camus also explored the concepts “the revolt” and “the love” through the cycle structure. Subject’s accomplishments: Reveal of the subject’s extensive work on the field Through his major works, Camus earned the Nobel Prize for Literature, and he then published his work named Algerian Chronicles. This work revealed his pacifist tendencies. Personal information: Brief introduction into the subject’s personal reflections. After Camus’ death, two more works of his were released. One is his novel titled A Happy Death and an unfinished autobiographical novel named The First Man. Some of the significant themes Camus explores through his literary career are alienation, rebellion, and guilt. Closing sentence: Information on the subject’s identity.

Biography essay conclusion

In your conclusion paragraph , what you need to do is to bring in your final thoughts. Do not make the mistake (see common mistakes ) of only repeating the claims you made throughout the essay.

As an alternative, you can choose to tie your subject’s legacy into the current day . You can ask yourself these questions to figure out what to say in your conclusion paragraph:

• What was my subject’s contribution to the ideas/events that are relevant today?
• Are they still remembered? How do people honor their work?​
• Out of the people that are significant today, who did my subject influence?​

Biography essay conclusion example

Camus died on 4 January 1960, when he was only 46 years old. He died in a car crash, and many scholars point out the “absurdity” of his death. Restatement: Connection with the subject’s main works Since Camus himself had previously stated that the most absurd way of dying he could think of would be a car accident, people regard his death as ironic. Today, Albert Camus is still considered to be one of the most significant thinkers of Western philosophy. Importance of the person: The subject’s relevancy today He is acknowledged as one of the most critical contributors of the absurdist philosophy. He is referred to as one of the best literary writers of his genre and one of the best thinkers of his age. Closing statement: Concluding sentences by highlighting the subject’s influence

Now you know all the separate parts of a biography essay and how to create them.  Remember that these steps can be used in all academic essays.

Before closing this article, let’s have a look at an extensive biography essay example on Mustafa Kemal Ataturk , you see below. 

5-Paragraph Biography Essay Example

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk: The Modernizer of Turkey

Introduction

Body paragraphs, key takeaways.

• A biography essay should tell the story of a person's life, but also focus on their contributions and impact.
• Start by doing thorough research and organizing your information into a chronological outline.
• Use vivid details and anecdotes to bring your subject to life and make the essay engaging for the reader.
• Incorporate analysis and reflection to help the reader understand the significance of the subject's life and work.
• End with a strong conclusion that summarizes the key points and leaves the reader with a lasting impression.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you start a biography essay.

Start your biography essay by giving a general information about your subject, such as their profession or importance.

What is biography example?

Biography is a literary work in which a person’s life is narrated. They are based on facts, and the main purpose of them is educating people about well-known individuals.

How do you write an outline for a biography?

A proper biography outline should include details about the information that will be presented in the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

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How to Write a Biography Essay: A Comprehensive Guide

A biography essay is a powerful tool to reveal the essence of a person. It goes beyond mere facts, delving into the impact a person has had on the world. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of crafting a compelling biography essay that captures the spirit of the individual you're exploring.

Biography Essay Writing Guide

Writing a biography essay requires a thoughtful approach. It's not just about narrating a person's life but understanding their impact on the world. Follow these steps to create a meaningful and well-structured biography essay:

1. Choose a Compelling Topic

The first step is crucial. Select a person whose life and work resonate with you. Your passion will shine through in your writing, making the essay more engaging.

2. Research Thoroughly

Dive into the life of your chosen subject. Unearth interesting facts, anecdotes, and pivotal moments. A well-researched essay adds credibility and depth to your writing.

3. Craft an Engaging Introduction

Your introduction sets the tone for the entire essay. Create a captivating opening that introduces the person and sparks curiosity in the reader.

4. Develop a Chronological Narrative

Organize your essay chronologically to provide a coherent timeline of the person's life. Highlight significant events and their impact on the world.

5. Analyze Their Impact

Move beyond facts to analyze the person's impact. Discuss how their work, ideas, or actions shaped the world around them.

6. Conclude Reflectively

Conclude your essay by reflecting on the enduring legacy of the individual. Summarize their contributions and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

EssayTigers Brings You the Best in Custom Paper Writing

When it comes to crafting a biography essay, EssayTigers brings you the best in custom paper writing. Our guides and expert writers ensure that your essay is not just informative but impactful.

Dos and Don'ts of Biography Essay Writing

• Choose a subject you are passionate about.
• Thoroughly research the person's life and contributions.
• Craft a compelling and engaging introduction.
• Organize the essay chronologically for clarity.
• Analyze the impact of the person on the world.
• Conclude with a reflective summary.
• Seek professional help from EssayTigers for custom paper writing.
• Choose a subject without sufficient historical or biographical material.
• Rely solely on one source of information.
• Start the essay with generic information.
• Present information in a disorganized manner.
• Neglect to analyze the person's broader impact.
• Rush the conclusion; take time to reflect thoughtfully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: how do i choose the right person for a biography essay.

A: Choose someone whose life and contributions align with your interests. Passion for the subject will enhance the quality of your writing.

Q: Is it necessary to include both positive and negative aspects?

A: While it's important to be objective, focus on presenting a balanced view rather than dwelling solely on negatives.

Q: Can I use the first person in a biography essay?

A: It's advisable to maintain a third-person perspective for a more formal and objective tone.

Final Thoughts

Writing a biography essay is a rewarding journey into the life of a remarkable individual. Through thorough research and thoughtful analysis, you can create an essay that not only informs but leaves a lasting impact on your readers. Trust EssayTigers for the best in custom paper writing to ensure your biography essay stands out.

Useful Resources:  https://www.stellarsurvey.com/how-to-write-a-survey-paper-what-you-need-to-know-about-writing-a-great-paper/

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What Is a Biographical Essay?

A biographical essay is a written composition describing the life and times of a particular individual. In general there are two primary types. The first is an academic report or essay used to paint a picture of a historical figure or person of some importance to the writer. This sort of paper is usually structured somewhat rigidly, often with fixed introduction, body, and conclusion paragraphs. Colleges, universities, and certain grants associated with higher education also sometimes ask for biographical essays as part of their application materials, and these sorts of compositions are usually a lot different in that schools are usually asking applicants to write about themselves . Furthermore, rather than trying to present a complete composite of their lives to date, most writers in these contexts focus on certain defining moments and experiences. The structure is often looser and less academic.

Core Components

Both types of essay have a few things in common. They’re both focused on a specific person, for instance, and can and often do weave in details that define that person’s context. This can include things like family relationships and geographical settings. Additionally, both usually have a singular point they’re trying to make. Even though the structure varies, organization is important. In academic papers, the writer’s main point is usually captured in what’s known as a “ thesis statement .” This statement makes a specific claim that the rest of the paper will be used to support. Self-portraits and personal statements don’t necessarily need a defined thesis statement, but writers who organize their thoughts around a central argument usually find that their compositions are more coherent and successful as a result.

Analyzing Figures from the Past

In an academic essay, the thesis might link certain key events in a subject's life to his subsequent actions, and by so doing offer an explanation of his or her motives. It might also simply describe how the subject lived his or her life, and the effects that he or she had on the world. Generally speaking, the thesis of this sort of essay ties the various stories and facts together and places them in a single, meaningful context.

This type of essay is generally no more than a few pages long and cannot, therefore, adequately cover all of the events in a person’s life. By selecting the events to include in an essay, writers usually emphasizes certain aspects of the subject’s life.

The Importance of Context

In nearly all cases, biographical-style essays in academic settings can be seen as written histories of the times in which the subject lived, and this history needs to provide some context for the essay. An essay on the life of Franklin Delano Roosevelt that failed to at least briefly discuss the history of the Depression, for instance, would be difficult to understand. In the same way, a personal essay should include key historical events or relationships that were important in the author’s life, but this should be done in an objective and balanced way.

Accuracy can be impacted by words as much as implications. For example, a biographical essay of Lenin that focuses on the execution of his brother by the government might read like a tale of revenge, while an essay discussing the life of Winston Churchill that ends before he was replaced as prime minister will read very differently from one that covers his entire life and career.

Goals of a Self-Portrait

One of the most common objectives of an autobiographical essay is to secure admission to a university or to obtain a scholarship. The essay should include elements that speak to an applicant’s character and personality. Personal hardships that have been overcome, admirable life goals, or a discussion of the role played by an inspiring mentor are common subjects for this type of writing. Interests and academics will generally be covered in other parts of the application and as such will not usually be the focus of this type of biographical essay, though this does vary from place to place. It’s important for writers to pay close attention to the instructions provided in order to submit a successful piece.

An autobiographical essay follows many of the same rules as an essay written about another person’s life. This type of essay should still contain a central thesis or theme, an appropriate level of personal detail, and a discussion of any other topics relevant to the specific position or posting. Writers should also be careful to stay on topic. An essay asking for admission to a religious institution, for example, should probably address issues of faith, but one included in an application for a physics grant probably should not.

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How to write a biography essay

The complete guide on biographical storytelling

Anyone can learn how to write a perfect biography essay about someone else’s life by making sure to focus on true, objective facts about a specific person. First, determine the scope of the person’s life (years), pick a central theme, and write out the biography using the classic narrative arc.

Many college courses include an essay writing component, and a biography essay is one of the types of essays that you may encounter, especially if you are taking courses in liberal arts disciplines such as history or cultural studies. This guide from Ultius will provide you with a thorough overview of how to write an effective biography essay. The guide will include the following sections:

• purpose of a biography essay
• biography and culture
• elements of a good biography essay
• how to write a great biography essay
• samples/examples
• additional information

After reading this guide, you should feel confident in your ability to write a strong biography essay, or at least in your ability to find the right kind of help to write such an essay.

Purpose of a biography essay

"Biography" literally means the story of a life. So, when you write a biography essay, what you are trying to do is to write the story of someone's life. ( Autobiography is a related concept that refers to the story of your own life.) If your biography essay is successful, then by the end of reading it, the reader should have a clear idea of what your subject did in his/her life and why his/her life was interesting and/or important enough to be the subject of a biography essay.

According to the Ultius glossary, a biography is a detailed descriptions of a famous person’s life and accomplishments (as a genre). Biographies typically contain intricate details of the subject’s personal life and sometimes include an analysis of the person’s personality and attributes.

A biography essay is similar to other forms of essays, such as the narrative essay, insofar as it involves telling a story. A biography essay, however, is supposed to be rooted in historical fact, and it should describe your subject using objective tone and language.

Narrative essay how-to guide. Click here is you are interested in learning how to write a narrative essay instead.

There are two important things to remember about a biography essay.

1. It is a true story that describes the life of your subject. You are not allowed to just make things up, and there should be scholarly documentation confirming that what you are writing is valid.

2. It is a story about someone else, generally a famous historical figure . If you were writing about yourself, that would be a memoir, which for present purposes should be considered as different from a biographical essay.

Only use details and facts that can be verified through documents or existing sources. An important hallmark of biography essays is that they are true.

The importance of biography essays

The English writer Samuel Johnson had this to say about biographies:

"No species of writing seems more worthy of cultivation than biography, since none can be more delightful or more useful, none can more certainly enchain the heart by irresistible interest, or more widely diffuse instruction to every diversity of condition.”

The main idea here is that my reading biographies, people can gain insight into the lives of other people who have done amazing things. This can be enchanting in its own right, and it can also provide the reader with inspiration for his own life and help the reader look at his own life with fresh eyes.

Stuck with writing? Essay services from Ultius can help with biography writing.

For example, are you interested in doing philosophy? If so, you may find it inspiring to read biographies such as:

• Ludwig Wittgenstein: The Duty of Genius , by Ray Monk
• Albert Camus: A Life , by Olivier Todd
• Søren Kierkegaard: A Biography , by Joakim Garff

A nice thing about the genre of biography is also that biographies are written about a huge range of different figures in different disciplines, meaning that you can find biographical subject that may specifically interest you or move your heart.

Biography and culture

Biographies play an important role in preserving human cultural memory: it is like history, except focused on the life of one person. People have been telling stories about heroes and other admirable figures since the beginning of the human species.

Modern biography, though, is somewhat different from the old heroic stories, in that modern biography is supposed to be objective and scholarly, and it is generally rooted in a secular view of time and history. In other words, modern biographies are based in reason more than imagination, and they are not supposed to include magical and/or irrational events.

Biography vs. legend

Biography is a modern scholarly discipline that has some similarities to the much older genre of the legend, but it is also different in some important ways.

So, the genre of biography carries on the old tradition of telling stories about the lives of admirable figures. But whereas the old legends were more imaginative and quasi-fictional in their tellings, modern biography is supposed to be based on reason and objective, verifiable facts about the life of the subject.

Elements of a good biography essay

In order to write a compelling biography essay, there are certain elements that you will have to include. Here are some of them.

Linear narrative arc

This may seem somewhat obvious, but a human life naturally resembles a story, starting with birth and ending in death, with various drama and events happening in between. This is the natural arc that you should follow when writing your biography essay. In general, you should begin your essay with the birth of your historical figure and then follow him/her through the events of his/her life until death.

Some biography essays might be able to get with innovations such as non-linear structure, but unless you really know what you are doing, that can get very confusing, and your biography essay would be difficult to follow. So, for all intent and purpose, we can say that following a linear narrative arc is a best practice for writing a biography essay.

Different types of narrative structures

These are some of the possible types of narrative structure. When writing a biography essay, you are strongly advised to stick to the linear structure.

The linear structure is the standard for most biographies; it starts at a specific point in the protagonist's life and moves forward in chronological order. Nonlinear structure is more complex as this style moves between time periods with time skips and flashbacks. Thematic structure strategically conveys given and new information to frame and insert specific themes.

Choose a compelling biography essay subject

For your biography essay, your subject will be the person whose life story you will be writing. In order for your biography essay to be effective, you will have to pick a subject who is interesting, important, or otherwise qualified to be the subject of a biography essay. You should ask yourself the question: why choose your subject, and what has your subject done that deserves to be recorded and remembered?

Of course, there's a sense in which every single human life is interesting and important. But for the purposes of your biography essay, you will want to dig deeper and consider why your subject is worthy of being remembered in the collective cultural memory.

An effective biography usually focuses on someone who has affected history, or someone who has achieved a high level of excellence within his/her discipline or field.

Søren Kierkegaard: A very important philosopher

Kierkegaard would be an example a good subject for a biography essay, because his works are generally considered a turning point in modern philosophy.

The subject of your biography essay does not necessarily need to be well-known. In fact, it can be a lot of fun to dig into the life of someone is not well known but should be. The important thing is that your subject must be compelling, and there must be a solid reason why his/her story should be told.

Also, when picking a subject, you may want to make sure that you actually like your subject. That can make writing a biography essay more fun, and your respect for the subject (or lack thereof) will also probably come across in your writing. If you want to convince others that your subject is compelling, then it would help if you find him/her compelling.

Choose biographical (life) events wisely

A lot can happen in a life, and it would probably be impossible for you to include everything there is to know about your subject within a single biography essay. So, you should choose the high point, or the most important points, and then focus on those.

Events in the life of Kierkegaard

These are key events that could be the focus of a biography essay on Kierkegaard.

Garff, Joakim. Søren Kierkegaard: A Biography. Princeton: Princeton U P, 2007.

How to write a great biography essay

Now that you know about the elements of a biography essay, you can follow these steps in order to ensure that your biography essay turns out to be a success.

Next, integrate the specific biography related aspects listed below.

Determine the scope of your biographical essay

Again, your biography essay won't be able to include everything there is to know about your subject. So, you will want to map out the scope of your biography essay before you get started. The birth and death of your subject are the logical starting and ending points for your essay. Then, you will want to select a few events or accomplishments in the life of your subject that are worthy of remembrance.

You can develop a full-fledged outline, or you can use a table like the one developed above. Either way, though, you will have to have a clear idea of where you will begin, where you will end, and the path that you will take from the beginning to the end.

Compile credible sources

Your biography essay has to be rooted in verifiable facts about the life of your subject. This means that it is important that you identify and document the sources of your information. The essay sources should generally be scholarly in nature, and you should avoid using websites to the greatest extent possible. This is because it is often difficult to tell whether the content on websites have been drawn from credible sources.

Questions to ask when compiling sources

If there are references listed on a website about your subject, then you should trace those references back to the original academic sources. Those are the sources you should use for your biography essay.

Write in a clear and compelling style

Remember: with your biography essay, you are at least partly trying to show your reader why your subject is interesting and why he/she deserves to have an essay written about him/her.

Your interest in your subject should come across in your writing style. After all, if you feel bored with your subject, then why should anyone else pay attention?

The language you use should be scholarly (but still filled with imagery ), but you should also focus on varying sentence structure, using excellent word choice, and other writing techniques that tell the life story of your subject in a compelling way that does justice to the importance of your subject.

Samples/examples

See the example biographical essay below for a clear example of how it needs to be written.

As the sample shows, it’s very important to be focused on true details. Please see the list of blog posts below for more examples of biography essays:

• Biography essay on Hillary Clinton
• Biography essay on Frank Rosolino
• Short essay on Edgar Allan Poe

If you need more help or would like something written for your own needs, consider buying custom essays from Ultius . Our talented writes can help you get something done in as fast as three hours.

Additional information

That brings us to the close of this guide on the biography essay. Here is a recapitulation of some of the best practices that have been covered here.

Develop a focused arc

You should use a linear narrative structure, starting with the birth of your subject, ending with their death, and focusing on selected key events and accomplishments in the subject's life.

Write in the scholarly mode

Although a biography essay is a kind of "story," it should still be written in a rational, scholarly way, and referencing in MLA or Chicago style is usually required for this kind of essay.

Love your subject

If you get to choose your subject, then you should pick a subject that you personally admire. This will make the writing process more fun, and your interest will also show in your writing and make the biography essay more enjoyable for the reader.

Find help if you need it

Finally, Ultius has plenty of resources that can help you write a successful biography essay and hone your skills as a writer. Please feel free to lean on us.

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Biographical Essay: Tips and Tricks for Writing a Perfect Biography

Biographical essays are some of the most common texts you can find on the Internet. When you browse a Wiki article about your favorite singer, you are basically reading a biography paper.

However, in academia, there are certain rules students need to follow to get perfect marks for their papers. In this article, we will explore what a biographical essay is, why it matters, and how to write an essay about a person.

What is a biographical essay?

A biographical essay is a paper that focuses on telling the life story of a person. Depending on the assignment, the person in question can be a famous historical or contemporary figure, someone from an author’s surroundings, or the author themselves.

The contents of a biography essay generally include information about a person’s accomplishments and a story of their path to succeed in their field.

What does a biography look like?

Typical biographical writing focuses on providing a comprehensive overview of a person’s life. It starts with the subject’s childhood and shows their progression into adulthood. This generally includes mentions of their family, education, personal relationships, and notable events that may have led them to obtain an achievement. At the same time, true biographies often uncover struggles and difficulties that their subjects go through to present a full and trustworthy context of their lives.

However, when writing a biography paper, students have a certain word limit. This makes it hard to relay the entire life story of a person, so you have to pick and choose what you want to put in your writing.

How to choose a subject for a biography paper

Unless your assignment takes care of it, you have to choose a person to write an essay about on your own. There are several things to consider to solve this issue:

• Contribution . Sometimes, you might have to write an essay about your neighbor for a creative writing class, but in academic writing, you have to choose a highly accomplished individual. Make sure that the subject of your future essay has contributed to their field of study or profession. Achievements and contributions are the most important things to write about in a biographical essay.
• Recognition . It is hard to write essays about someone who is hardly known in their industry. The more recognition a person gets, the more sources you can find about their life and accomplishments.
• Relevance . Choose someone whose work and contribution are still relevant to this day. This way, you can also include a passage about their significance in modern academia and how they continue to transform the world because of their brilliance.
• Personal interest . It is more enjoyable to write about someone you find interesting. The research and writing will be much easier if you choose a person whom you personally consider a role model.

With these things in mind, selecting a subject for your biography paper will be a piece of cake. Just make sure that your future essay follows the guidelines set by your professor.

How to write a biography essay

After you choose a subject for your essay, it is time to begin writing. Let’s look at the biography essay outline you need to follow.

Introduction of a biographical essay

The first thing you need to understand is how to start a biography essay.

Every academic paper always starts with an introduction. In the introduction, you have to introduce a problem, express your opinion (though not always), and state a thesis statement which you will then defend with arguments.

A biographical essay introduction follows the same plan. But since the subject matter of this essay type is a real person, your task is to provide an overview of their achievements and why you consider their contribution to their field noteworthy.

Body of a biographical essay

In the body of your biography paper, you need to present important facts from the life of your subject.

However, it is essential to understand that not all aspects of a person's life have to be mentioned in a biography essay. For instance, you don’t need to mention how many spouses they had because it generally has nothing to do with their notable achievements. (Unless your essay is about Henry VIII!)

Let’s break down what points you may describe in the body of your biography paper.

• Childhood . This part of your biographical essay should focus on the early life of your subject. Describe the conditions of their upbringing. When were they born? What country did they spend their childhood in? Who were their parents and what role did they play in your subject’s future accomplishments? Did the person in question start exhibiting their affinity to their field in childhood? Make sure to be brief in your writing, but still mention important details that can help your audience understand your subject’s genius better.
• Education . You should also bring up your subject’s education. Make sure to pay special attention to their professional or higher education and their first achievements. Even if they didn’t get any education, you should also mention it and elaborate on what they did instead that helped them gain knowledge and experience to achieve recognition later.
• Career and accomplishments . Generally, most well-known people start gaining recognition in the course of their careers. That’s why your biographical writing should also include a brief overview of your subject’s professional path. How did they start their career? What choices did they make that helped them get closer to success? When and what exactly did they do that brought them fame? This is where you can also give a timeline of their main achievements.
• Contribution . This part has less to do with chronological description of a person’s life and more to do with how their accomplishments affected their field or industry. Bring up quotes from your subject’s contemporaries or look for newspaper articles and other official documentation that confirms their contribution. Summarize how this contribution changed or even revolutionized their field.

Use these guidelines to write the main part of your biographical essay. Always remember that the body of your paper should support the claim made in the introduction. So if your thesis states that John Doe was the greatest radiologist of his time, the facts you present in the body should serve as arguments in favor of this statement.

Conclusion of a biographical essay

Now, let’s learn how to end a biography essay. Like with other academic writing, your conclusion should summarize the main ideas written in the main part of your essay. You can reference your thesis once more and briefly explain why the subject of your essay is a notable figure in their field. However, you must not copy the same wording used in the earlier sections of your texts. 

You may end your paper by explaining how the contributions made by the subject of the biography are still relevant to this day.

Summary: Biographical essay

Biographical essays are important assignments that help us learn more about famous people of the past. Learning about their contribution to society helps us keep their memory alive and better understand our history.

If you need help with writing your biography paper, you can rely on AI-generator Aithor. With Aithor, you can quickly find lists of trustworthy sources, create essay outlines, check your writing for grammatical errors, and much more! Write your perfect biographical essay with Aithor.

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How to Write a Biography Essay and Get an A+

03 July, 2020

7 minutes read

Author:  Elizabeth Brown

Got a chance to write about your idol but need help with realization? Read our article to know the secrets of effective biography essay writing. Whoever you decide to write a biography essay about, don’t try to include random information at once. The person you describe would not like it. Instead, read our article about how to write a biography essay correctly and, more importantly, take pleasure in composing it. We’ll share some smart tips and tricks that you’ll find particularly useful for your writing.

What is a biographical essay?

Some tend to mistakenly attribute biographical essay to the process of writing about themselves. But actually, biography definition has nothing to do with you. It’s more about telling the engaging story about a person’s life. This individual can be anyone: a famous historical figure, a well-known actor, politician, dancer, musician, artist, writer, inventor – you get the point. Such task sounds intriguing and interesting, and indeed it is. A biographical essay is a great chance to dilute simple academic tasks with a pinch of new article full of interesting facts and opinions.

Biography essay outline

Before writing a biography essay, it’s important to pay attention to essay structure and build up a biography outline. An outline is generally a schematic plan that helps to organize biography essays in accordance with the writer’s preference. In this, the primary task is to create a list of the most significant facts you’ll want to develop in the essay. The easiest way of arranging an outline is to add a numbered list indicating the main points, and a list of sub-points marked with bullets. Also, don’t forget to include a biography thesis statement that’ll sum up the main idea of your essay in one sentence.

How to start a biography essay?

Before writing, you first need to understand what to include in a biography essay. An eloquent biography essay always starts with the introduction of a chosen person. The initial step of writing it involves the inclusion of such information as the person’s name, date of their birth, and the place they were born in. Of course, it’s not a uniform set of data necessary for this part. You can take the situation in your hands and write about some cultural or historical background surrounding one’s birthplace or the day they were born. Adding such information to the introductory part will help to create some context by connecting you and readers closer to the described character and broadening the common knowledge with more absorbing facts.

How to write a biography essay about someone else?

When people ask how to write a biography paper, the only thing they think of is a random flow of ideas about someone’s life. In fact, writing a biography paper is more complicated. The section following the introduction is devoted to life description. Here, you’ll need to feature early life and childhood of a chosen person. This part should cover general information about their parents, and divert readers’ attention to some facts related to their origin, education, and relationship status. Next, focus more on education and place where the person grew up. In this section, include more detailed information about the critical moments of their childhood life, like the name of the school they studied in or the point of moving to another city or town. Perhaps there are more facts worthy of note, such as family problems or health issues that revolved around one’s childhood. If there are such, include them as well.

The second section of your biographical essay will tell readers about someone’s adulthood. Depending on the person, this piece of story can be outlined differently. For example, you can write about their university or college life, or indicate their first job. The point here is to chronologically depict a period of moving from childhood to adult life. Then, talk about the formation of a person’s career path, starting with the first working experience and ending with the remarkable moment of revealing talents and skills that shaped their life. In the next paragraph, mention the person’s relationship during their adulthood. If applicable, describe how someone special helped them to become successful or motivated them throughout their career. Another significant aspect in this section has to do with the person’s success, in which readers could know about their notable accomplishments and achievements.

The final section of a biography essay will touch the person’s current or later life. If they are alive, include the overlook of their place of living and write about their activities. You can also add such information as to their current projects or career plans, along with other meaningful facts about their life.

If the person you’re writing about is no longer living, emphasize on the brightest moments at the sunset of their life. Mention the definitive moments and aspects, and write about the cause of their deaths.

Other tips on writing a biography

If you want your biography essay to leave a great impact on readers, don’t conclude it with a simple explanation of why this or that person died and what their latest works were. This is only factual information which brings no specific value to your essay and, more importantly, doesn’t breathe life into it. To wrap up your essay content with a memorable grabber, include a couple of sentences in which write about the person’s legacy. That is, add the opinion of why this individual’s activity became an exceptional contribution to the world’s history, and why they have changed some aspects of their field.

Biography essay writing is a responsible task that aims at showing a well-acclaimed person from the best light. Therefore, you need to write about one’s life as you would about your mother – with maximum details and showing respect for that person. So follow our advice to compose an A+ biography essay that you and your audience will enjoy reading.

Note that our company provides academic writing help. You can buy a Biography essay written from scratch by our  essay writer .

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Biographical Essay Examples: Learn How to Tell a Compelling Life Story in Writing

Explore the art of storytelling through captivating biographical essays. Join us on a journey of discovery as we unveil inspiring examples that teach you how to craft compelling life stories. Step into the world of biography writing and learn how to engage readers with fascinating narratives. Get ready to bring extraordinary lives to life on the page!

The art of storytelling has been an integral part of human culture since the dawn of civilization. It is through stories that we learn about the lives of others, understand different perspectives, and gain insight into the human experience. Biographical essays, in particular, provide a unique opportunity to delve into the life story of an individual and share their journey with readers. In this article, we will explore biographical essay examples and learn how to tell a compelling life story in writing.

What Is a Biographical Essay?

A biographical essay is a piece of writing in which you narrate the life story of an individual. It provides an opportunity for you to conduct research and discover fascinating details and perspectives concerning someone. A biographical essay is also a written account of an individual's life, highlighting their achievements, experiences, and personal characteristics. It can be about historical figures, famous personalities, or even ordinary people who have made a significant impact on the world or those around them. Biographical essays are often used in academic settings to provide insight into a person's life and contributions, but they can also be written for personal, professional, or entertainment purposes.

One of the key elements of a compelling biographical essay is a well-crafted narrative. The narrative structure helps to engage readers and keeps them interested in the story being told. A 

A good biographical essay should have a clear beginning, middle, and end, just like any other story. It should have a strong opening that hooks the reader, a well-paced middle that provides details about the person's life, and a satisfying conclusion that ties everything together.

Biographical Essay Writing Tips

Writing a biographical essay requires careful planning, research, and storytelling skills to create a compelling narrative that captures the essence of a person's life. Here are some tips to help you craft an engaging biographical essay:

Choose a Fascinating Subject:

The first step in writing a biographical essay is to choose a subject whose life story is intriguing and resonates with your audience. Whether it's a historical figure, a famous personality, or an ordinary person who has made a difference, ensure that your subject has a compelling life story that is worth exploring and sharing.

Conduct Thorough Research:

Research is the foundation of any biographical essay. Conduct in-depth research on your subject, including their background, achievements, challenges, and contributions. Utilize primary and secondary sources, such as biographies, memoirs, interviews, and historical records, to gather accurate and reliable information. This research will provide the basis for your essay and ensure that your writing is well-informed and credible.

Develop a Clear Outline:

Before you start writing, develop a clear outline that organizes your ideas and provides a structure for your essay. Outline the main sections of your essay , such as the introduction, background information, key events or milestones, challenges faced, achievements, and conclusion. This will help you maintain a coherent and organized flow throughout your essay.

Tell a Story:

A biographical essay is not just a collection of facts, but a compelling story that engages the reader. Use storytelling techniques, such as vivid descriptions, dialogues, and anecdotes, to bring your subject's life to life on the page. Focus on key events or moments that shaped your subject's life and highlight their emotions, motivations, and experiences. This will create a personal connection between the reader and your subject, making your essay more engaging and memorable.

Be Objective and Balanced:

While it's important to be inspired by your subject, strive to maintain objectivity and balance in your writing. Present a well-rounded and nuanced view of your subject, including their strengths, weaknesses, successes, and failures. Avoid bias or exaggeration, and ensure that your essay is based on factual information and credible sources.

Provide Context:

Provide context for your subject's life story by incorporating relevant historical, social, or cultural information. This will help readers understand the background and circumstances in which your subject lived and provide a deeper understanding of their life and achievements. However, be mindful of not overwhelming your essay with excessive background information, and focus on what is relevant to your subject's story.

Edit and Revise:

Like any other form of writing, editing, and revising are crucial in crafting a compelling biographical essay. After completing your first draft, take the time to review and revise your essay for clarity, coherence, and flow. Check for any factual inaccuracies, grammar, or spelling errors, and ensure that your essay follows a logical structure. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives and improve your essay.

Show Respect and Empathy:

When writing about someone's life, it's important to show respect and empathy towards your subject. Avoid sensationalism or exploitation of their life story and strive to depict them in a dignified and compassionate manner. Acknowledge their achievements, challenges, and contributions with sincerity and respect, and be mindful of their privacy and personal boundaries.

Be Authentic:

Finally, be authentic in your writing. Share your voice and perspective while staying true to the facts and nuances of your subject's life. Bring your unique perspective and insights to the essay, and strive to make it a genuine reflection of your writing style and personal connection with your subject.

In conclusion, writing a biographical essay requires careful research, storytelling skills, and a respectful

Personal Essay

My Journey: Embracing Life's Adventures

Life is an unpredictable adventure, full of twists and turns that shape who we become. Throughout my journey, I have encountered challenges, triumphs, and everything in between. I have learned that

Resilience and perseverance are crucial in overcoming obstacles, and every experience, whether positive or negative, has valuable lessons to offer. I have also realized the importance of cherishing the present moment and embracing new opportunities with an open heart and mind. Life may be uncertain, but I am determined to make the most of it, explore new horizons, and continually grow and evolve along the way.

Essay Examples

"The Untold Story of Nelson Mandela: From Prisoner to President"

This biographical essay tells the life story of Nelson Mandela, a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, political leader, and philanthropist who served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. The essay starts with an attention-grabbing opening that introduces the reader to Mandela's imprisonment on Robben Island and the hardships he faced during his time in captivity. It then delves into his early life, education, and activism against apartheid, painting a vivid picture of his journey from prisoner to president. The essay includes anecdotes, quotes, and historical context that provide a well-rounded portrayal of Mandela's life and legacy.

"The Power of Perseverance: The Life of Helen Keller"

This biographical essay tells the remarkable story of Helen Keller, an American author, political activist, and lecturer who was both blind and deaf. The essay begins with an engaging introduction that highlights Keller's disabilities and the challenges she faced from a young age. It then delves into her childhood, her relationship with her teacher Anne Sullivan, and her accomplishments as a writer and social activist. The essay uses vivid descriptions and sensory details to transport the reader into Keller's world and conveys the incredible strength of her character.

"Rising Above Adversity: The Journey of Malala Yousafzai"

This biographical essay tells the inspiring story of Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist for female education and women's rights who survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban. The essay begins with a gripping prologue that describes the attack on Malala and sets the stage for her remarkable journey. It then traces her early life, her advocacy for girls' education, and the challenges she faced under the Taliban's rule. The essay includes anecdotes, quotes, and personal reflections that provide a compelling portrayal of Malala's courage and resilience in the face of adversity.

Writing Inspiration

Writing a biographical essay can be an inspiring and fulfilling endeavor. As a writer, you have the unique opportunity to delve into the life story of an individual and share their experiences, achievements, and personal characteristics with readers. Here are some sources of inspiration that can help you find compelling stories for your biographical essay.

Historical Figures:

Throughout history, there have been countless individuals who have made significant contributions to society, shaped the course of events, or left a lasting legacy. From political leaders and innovators to artists and activists, the lives of historical figures are often rich with intriguing stories that can make for compelling biographical essays. You can choose to write about well-known figures like Martin Luther King Jr. , Marie Curie , or Leonardo da Vinci , or explore lesser-known figures whose stories deserve to be told.

Famous Personalities:

Celebrities, athletes, musicians, and other famous personalities often have fascinating life stories that can make for compelling biographical essays. These individuals often face unique challenges, overcome obstacles, and achieve remarkable success in their respective fields. Writing about their journey, struggles, and achievements can provide insights into their lives beyond the public persona, and offer readers a glimpse into the realities of fame and fortune.

Ordinary People:

While historical figures and famous personalities may be popular choices for biographical essays, the lives of ordinary people can also be a rich source of inspiration. Everyday individual who have faced adversity, achieved personal milestones, or made a difference in their communities can have compelling life stories that resonate with readers. It could be a family member, a neighbor, a teacher, or someone you have come across in your community whose story has profoundly touched you. Writing about their life can shed light on the power of resilience, determination, and the human spirit.

Personal Experiences:

Another source of inspiration for a biographical essay can be your own experiences. Reflecting on your own life story or the lives of those close to you can provide unique insights and perspectives that can make for a compelling narrative. It could be a story of overcoming challenges, pursuing a passion, or learning from failures and successes. Sharing your personal experiences in a biographical essay can be deeply introspective and provide a genuine connection with your readers.

Researching various topics , events, or historical periods can also lead you to interesting life stories that can inspire your biographical essay. Exploring different eras, cultures, or social movements can uncover fascinating individuals whose stories are worth telling.

Essay Structure

The structure of a biographical essay typically follows a basic essay structure consisting of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. However, there may be slight variations depending on the purpose of the essay and the specific requirements of the assignment.

Here is a breakdown of the typical structure of a biographical essay:

Introduction

The introduction sets the tone for the essay and should grab the reader's attention. It should provide some background information about the subject of the essay and include a thesis statement that summarizes the main point of the essay.

Body paragraphs

The body of the essay contains the main content and should be organized into several paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on a different aspect of the subject's life or accomplishments, such as childhood, education , career, or personal relationships. It should provide specific details, anecdotes, and examples to support the thesis statement and provide a clear understanding of the subject's life.

The conclusion ties everything together and should restate the thesis statement differently. It should summarize the key points made in the body paragraphs and leave the reader with a lasting impression. The conclusion may also provide some final thoughts or reflections on the subject's life and legacy.

Famous Personality

Allama Iqbal: A Visionary Poet and Philosopher

Allama Iqbal, also known as Dr. Muhammad Iqbal, was a prominent poet, philosopher, and politician who is regarded as one of the most influential thinkers in the history of modern South Asia. Born on November 9, 1877, in Sialkot, a city in present-day Pakistan, Iqbal grew up in a devout Muslim family and was deeply influenced by the teachings of Islam from a young age.

Iqbal's early education took place in Sialkot, and he later went to Lahore, where he completed his Bachelor's degree from Government College. He then traveled to England to pursue higher education, where he obtained a Bachelor's degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics from Cambridge University and later completed his Ph.D. in Philosophy from Munich University in Germany. During his time in Europe, Iqbal was exposed to various intellectual and philosophical ideas, which would later shape his worldview and contribute to his renowned poetry and philosophical writings.

One of Iqbal's most significant contributions was his poetry, which is known for its rich imagery, deep philosophical insights, and powerful messages of spiritual awakening and social reform. Iqbal's poetry was deeply rooted in his love for Islam and his longing for the revival of Islamic values and principles in the face of colonialism, social injustices, and moral decay.

In his poetry, Iqbal emphasized the importance of self-realization, self-respect, and self-reliance, and called for Muslims to rise above their individual and societal challenges and strive for excellence. He actively participated in the struggle for the rights of Muslims in British India and advocated for the establishment of an independent Muslim state. Iqbal's famous Allahabad Address in 1930, where he proposed the idea of a separate Muslim state in the Indian subcontinent, laid the foundation for the creation of Pakistan as an independent nation for Muslims in 1947.

Despite his remarkable contributions, Iqbal's life was not without challenges. He faced criticism, opposition, and personal setbacks during his lifetime, but his unwavering commitment to his beliefs and his passion for serving humanity remained unshakable

Life Stories

Throughout history, countless individuals have left indelible marks on the world through their remarkable lives. From visionaries and leaders to artists and activists, their stories inspire and captivate us, showcasing the boundless potential of the human spirit. Here are three compelling biographical stories of individuals whose lives have had a lasting impact on society.

Nelson Mandela: The Courageous Anti-Apartheid Activist

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, born on July 18, 1918, in a small village in South Africa, grew up witnessing the oppressive system of apartheid, which enforced racial segregation and discrimination. As a young man, Mandela became a vocal advocate for the rights of Black South Africans and joined the African National Congress (ANC) to fight against apartheid.

Mandela's activism and resistance against the apartheid regime led to his imprisonment for 27 years, during which he became an international symbol of the anti-apartheid movement. Despite the harsh conditions of imprisonment, Mandela remained steadfast in his beliefs and never wavered in his pursuit of justice and equality.

After his release from prison in 1990, Mandela continued his fight against apartheid and worked toward reconciliation and unity among all racial groups in South Africa. In 1994, he became the country's first Black president through the first fully democratic elections, and he served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. Mandela's leadership and unwavering commitment to justice and equality continue to inspire people around the world, making him an iconic figure in the fight against oppression.

Frida Kahlo: The Resilient Mexican Artist

Magdalena Carmen Frida Kahlo y Calderon, known as Frida Kahlo, was born on July 6, 1907, in Mexico City, Mexico. She is widely regarded as one of the most prominent and influential artists of the 20th century, known for her surrealist and vibrant self-portraits that conveyed her physical and emotional pain.

Kahlo's life was marked by immense physical and emotional challenges. At the age of 18, she was involved in a devastating bus accident that left her with severe injuries, including a broken spine and pelvis. She endured numerous surgeries and spent months in bed recovering, during which she turned to painting as a means of expressing her emotions and experiences.

Kahlo's art was deeply personal and often depicted her physical and emotional pain, her Mexican heritage, and her feminist ideologies. Her paintings often featured vivid colors, surreal elements, and symbolic imagery, which earned her international recognition and acclaim.

Despite her physical challenges, Kahlo's resilience and determination to pursue her passion for art never wavered. She continued to paint and create despite her chronic pain and multiple health issues, and her art continues to captivate and inspire audiences around the world to this day.

Malala Yousafzai: The Fearless Education Activist

Malala Yousafzai was born on July 12, 1997, in Mingora, Swat District, Pakistan. From a young age, Malala was a passionate advocate for education and girls' rights in her native Swat Valley, where the Taliban had enforced a ban on girls' education.

At the age of 11, Malala began writing a blog for BBC Urdu under a pseudonym, where she documented her life under Taliban rule and her determination to fight for education. Her activism gained international attention, and she became a prominent voice for girls' education worldwide.

Embarking on the journey of life, we encounter a tapestry of experiences that shape who we are and add depth to our existence. From overcoming obstacles and celebrating growth to embracing new opportunities, we come to appreciate the captivating unpredictability of life's adventures. Each of us holds a unique journey, filled with invaluable lessons and cherished memories that fuel personal development. 

When it comes to writing biographical essays, tools like Jenni.ai can be a game-changer. With its AI-powered features, Jenni.ai offers invaluable assistance in developing strong thesis statements, and helping you produce high-quality articles. By leveraging this, you can save time and energy while producing exceptional work. 

Embrace the art of writing biographical essays, and unlock new avenues of academic and professional success by following the steps outlined in this article and harnessing the power of Jenni.ai. Seize the opportunity to become a skilled essay writer by signing up for Jenni.ai today , and embark on a transformative journey towards achieving your writing goals!

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How to write a biographical essay.

• By Dr. Marvin L. Smith

Imagine you’re a detective trying to solve the mystery of someone’s life. Writing a biographical essay is like putting together the clues to tell a person’s story in a way that’s interesting and easy to understand.

If you are in school, knowing how to write a biographical essay is a crucial skill. It will help you succeed in many subjects, from history to language arts.

But sometimes, even with lots of research, it can be hard to turn your notes into a clear and exciting essay.

Don’t worry! This guide is here to help you master the art of biographical essay writing and make your work shine.

What is a Biographical Essay?

A biographical essay tells the story of a person’s life. It’s like a close-up look at who they are, what they’ve done, and how they’ve made a difference in the world.

Imagine you’re reading a story about someone’s life. A biographical essay is like that, but it’s more than just a list of facts. It’s a way to understand what made the person tick, what they achieved, and how they affected the people and world around them.

A biography just tells you what happened in someone’s life. A biographical essay goes deeper. It helps you understand why things happened and how they affected the person. Think of it like a puzzle. When you put all the pieces together, you see the whole picture of the person’s life.

To write a biographical essay, you need to gather interesting stories, quotes, and facts about the person. Then, you weave them together to create a vivid picture of their life. It’s like creating a movie about someone’s life, but in words.

To do it well, you need to research carefully and think about how to tell the story in a way that’s engaging and easy to follow. The goal is to show what made the person special and what we can learn from their life.

Choosing the Right Subject for Your Biographical Essay

When writing a biographical essay, it’s essential to choose someone with a fascinating story. This person should have had exciting experiences, faced challenges, and achieved great things.

Think about who would interest your readers.

Is there someone who has a unique story that can teach us something new?

Make sure you can find reliable sources to learn more about this person.

A good subject will give you plenty of interesting facts and insights to share.

The Importance of Relevance and Personal Interest

When you write about someone you care about, your writing becomes more interesting and exciting. Choose a person who is important to you and your readers. This will make your essay more meaningful and fun to read.

Examples of Compelling Biographical Subjects

• Historical Figures Abraham Lincoln and Marie Curie are two examples of people who did amazing things and changed the world. Their stories are fascinating and can teach us a lot. Role Models of Today Malala Yousafzai and Elon Musk are two people who are making a difference in the world right now. Their stories are inspiring and show us what we can achieve if we work hard and believe in ourselves. Unsung Heroes You might not know much about Harriet Tubman or Alan Turing, but they did incredible things and helped make the world a better place. Their stories are just as inspiring as those of famous people, and they can teach us valuable lessons.

You can use Blainy to help you come up with great ideas for your articles.

Example Titles

Here are a few example titles for a biographical essay:

• The Life and Legacy of Nelson Mandela: A Journey to Freedom
• Marie Curie: Pioneering Scientist and Double Nobel Laureate
• Elon Musk: Innovator of the Future
• Harriet Tubman: The Conductor of the Underground Railroad
• The Resilience of Malala Yousafzai: A Voice for Education
• The Genius of Leonardo da Vinci: Artist, Inventor, Visionary
• Rosa Parks: The Woman Who Sparked a Movement
• Steve Jobs: The Man Who Revolutionized Technology
• Amelia Earhart: Breaking Barriers in the Sky
• Winston Churchill: Leadership in the Face of Adversity
• The Compassion of Mother Teresa: A Life of Service
• Albert Einstein: The Mind That Changed Physics
• The Bravery of Mahatma Gandhi: From Lawyer to Leader
• Jane Goodall: Champion of the Chimpanzees
• The Vision of Martin Luther King Jr.: Dreaming of Equality
• The Artistic Revolution of Frida Kahlo: Pain and Passion
• Nikola Tesla: The Forgotten Genius
• The Innovation of Thomas Edison: Lighting Up the World
• The Tenacity of Helen Keller: Overcoming Obstacles
• The Leadership of Franklin D. Roosevelt: Guiding America Through Turmoil

How to do research for a Biographical Essay?

To write a great biographical essay, you need to do your homework. Start by finding good sources of information, such as books, articles, and interviews. These will help you learn more about the person you’re writing about and get interesting facts and quotes.

You can find good sources at the library, online, or in books. Look for websites that are run by experts or organizations that know what they’re talking about.

Some websites even have videos, pictures, and audio clips that can make your essay more interesting.

Blainy can help you find good sources and get access to articles , books, and other online materials. It’s like having a personal research assistant !

After gathering your sources, organize your research notes by themes or chronological order. Digital tools like note-taking apps and spreadsheets can help maintain an organized system. 

Accuracy is paramount—Cross-check facts with multiple reliable sources to ensure credibility. 

Developing a Compelling Thesis Statement for Your Biographical Essay 

A thesis statement is like a roadmap for your biographical essay. It tells the reader what your essay is about and helps them understand the person you’re writing about. A good thesis statement makes your essay clear and interesting.

To write a great thesis statement, think about the most important things about the person you’re writing about. What did they achieve? What challenges did they face? How did they make a difference in the world? Try to sum up these ideas in one sentence.

For example, instead of saying “Marie Curie was a great scientist.”

You could say: “Marie Curie’s research on radioactivity helped her win two Nobel Prizes and changed the way we understand science and medicine.”

This sentence tells the reader exactly what Marie Curie did and why it’s important.

Blainy can help you come up with ideas for your thesis statement. It can look at your research notes and suggest sentences that might work. This can help you refine your ideas and write a great thesis statement.

A good thesis statement helps you stay focused as you write your essay. Each paragraph should support your thesis statement, and you should refer back to it often to make sure you’re on track. This will help your essay flow logically and make sense to the reader.

Structuring Your Biographical Essay for Maximum Impact 

There are three sections of any essay, an introduction, the body of the essay, and followed by a conclusion.

Crafting an Engaging Introduction for Your Biographical Essay

The introduction to your biographical essay is like the first scene of a movie. It’s your chance to grab the reader’s attention and make them want to keep reading.

Begin with something interesting, like a cool story, a surprising fact, or a quote that makes you think. This will make the reader curious and want to learn more about the person you’re writing about.

Providing Necessary Background Information

After the hook, provide important background information about the person you’re writing about.

This should include:

• Their full name
• When they were born and died
• A brief summary of what they did that was important

This helps your reader understand who the person is and why they’re important. It’s like giving them a map to help them follow the rest of your essay.

Introducing the Thesis Statement

Conclude your introduction with a clear and concise thesis statement. This statement outlines the central argument or focus of your essay. This will guide the reader on what to expect in the later paragraphs. Your thesis should reflect the key themes or aspects of your subject’s life that you will explore.

Ensuring a Smooth Transition to the Body

Make sure your introduction flows nicely into the rest of your essay. You can do this by giving a quick preview of the main points you’ll be covering. This helps your reader know what to expect and gets them ready to learn more about the person you’re writing about.

Leveraging Blainy for a Strong Introduction

Blainy is a tool that can help you write a great introduction. It can:

• Give you ideas for hooks to grab the reader’s attention
• Help you organize the important background information
• Assist you in writing a clear thesis statement
• Suggest phrases to connect your ideas

By using Blainy, you can create an introduction that’s both interesting and informative. This will help you grab the reader’s attention and set the stage for the rest of your essay.

Developing the Body of Your Biographical Essay

The body of your essay tells the story of your subject’s life. It should be organized in a way that makes sense, like a timeline.

Typically, this involves a combination of chronological and thematic structures.

When writing about subject’s life, start with their childhood and family background. Then, move on to the important events and accomplishments that made them who they are. Don’t forget to include any challenges they faced and how they overcame them. Finally, talk about the impact they had on the world.

Each paragraph should focus on one important part of your subject’s life. This will help you tell their story in a clear and orderly way. Try to move from one idea to the next in a way that makes sense, so your reader can easily follow along.

Detailed Descriptions and Analysis

In each paragraph, try to paint a vivid picture with words. Don’t just list facts – explain what they mean and why they’re important. Think about how the events and achievements you’re writing about affected your subject’s life and what they’re remembered for.

To make your points stronger, use evidence from trustworthy sources. This could be a quote from someone who knew your subject, a story about something that happened to them, or a record of something they achieved. This will help you show that what you’re saying is true and make your essay more convincing.

Maintaining Connection to the Thesis Statement

Each section of the body should support and develop your thesis, reinforcing the central argument or theme of your essay. Regularly refer back to your thesis statement to ensure that your writing remains focused and cohesive.

Using Transitional Phrases

Use transitional phrases and sentences to link paragraphs and ideas. They help your reader move smoothly from one idea to the next, making it easier to understand the story of your subject’s life and what you’re trying to say.

Highlighting Key Themes

As you develop the body of your essay, highlight key themes and patterns in your subject’s life. This might include recurring challenges, significant turning points, or consistent traits and behaviors. Identifying these themes can add depth to your analysis and help reinforce your thesis.

Leveraging Blainy for a Coherent Body

Blainy is a tool that can help you organize your ideas and write a clear and strong essay. It can help you:

• Create a detailed plan for your essay
• Turn short notes into complete paragraphs
• Find the right words to connect your ideas
• Add more depth to your writing and even think of opposing views

By using Blainy , you can make sure that each part of your essay is well-organized and supports your main point. This will help you tell a complete and interesting story about your subject’s life.

Revising and Editing Your Biographical Essay

After you’ve finished writing your first draft, it’s time to make it even better. Take a break from your essay, and then come back to it with fresh eyes. This means you’ll be able to look at your work in a new way and see things you might have missed before.

As you read through your essay, ask yourself:

• Is everything clear and easy to understand?
• Do all the parts fit together well?
• Does the essay flow smoothly from one idea to the next?

Look for areas that might need some improvement, and make notes on what you want to change.

Improving Clarity and Coherence

Make sure each paragraph and sentence is easy to understand and helps to tell the whole story of your essay. You want your ideas to flow smoothly from one to the next, like a river.

Think of it like building a bridge with blocks. Each block should fit together perfectly, and the bridge should be strong and steady. In your essay, each paragraph should be like a block that helps to build a strong and clear argument.

• Is each paragraph clear and easy to understand?
• Do my ideas flow smoothly from one to the next?
• Do I have good evidence to support my points?

Re-examining the Thesis Statement

Re-examine your thesis statement and supporting arguments throughout your essay. Make sure your thesis is still relevant and that each section effectively supports it. If necessary, refine your thesis to better align with the content you have developed.

Reviewing Sentence Structure and Vocabulary

Take a close look at your essay and think about how you’ve written your sentences. Are they all the same, or do you mix it up? Using different types of sentences can make your writing more fun to read.

Also, think about the words you’ve used. Are they the best choices? Using the right words can help you get your point across clearly and make a bigger impact. Look for places where you can use more descriptive words instead of vague ones. For example, instead of saying “the dog was big,” you could say “the dog was enormous!”

Checking for Grammatical, Punctuation, and Spelling Errors

Go through your essay carefully to catch any mistakes in grammar, punctuation, or spelling. Use tools like spell-check, but also read through your work slowly to make sure everything is correct. Double-checking for mistakes will help you make a great impression on your readers.

Seeking External Feedback

Ask a friend, teacher, or family member to read your essay and give you feedback. They might notice things you missed and have ideas to make your essay even better.

Conducting a Final Read-Through

After making revisions based on feedback and your own review, conduct a final read-through of your essay. Ensure that all changes have been incorporated smoothly and that the essay reads well as a whole. This is your last chance to catch any lingering issues and make final adjustments.

Leveraging Blainy for Effective Revision

Blainy can  assist  throughout writing process. You can  generate your essay outline  and even ask it to write it.

The  thesis statement generator  tool helps you create strong thesis statement.

Sentence and paragraph expansion  tools will help you elaborate your POV.

You can use blainy  introduction  and  conclusion  generating features to write a compelling start and a strong end of your article.

Cite Your Sources

When you write about someone’s life, it’s essential to say where you got your information. This is called citing your sources. It helps you avoid copying someone else’s work and makes your essay more trustworthy.

There are different ways to cite sources, such as APA, MLA, Harvard, and IEEE. Ask your teacher which style to use. Each style has its own rules for citing sources in your essay and a list at the end.

When you quote or use someone else’s idea, put a short citation in your essay. This usually includes the author’s last name and the year they wrote it.

At the end of your essay, make a list of all the sources you used. This list is called a “References” or “Bibliography.” Make sure each source has all the right information, like the author’s name and title.

Double-check that all your sources are correct and cited correctly. This will help you avoid mistakes and make your essay more trustworthy.

P.S. Let me know in the comments if I should create a guide on how to cite in different formats 🙂

Using Quotations and Paraphrasing Correctly

When you use someone’s exact words, put them in quotation marks and cite the source. When you put their ideas in your own words, still cite the source.

It’s essential to show which ideas are yours and which are from others to be honest in your writing.

Managing Digital Sources

When you use a website or online article, include the web address (URL) and the date you visited it. This helps readers find the same information, even if the website changes later.

Reviewing Citation Guidelines

Finally, review the specific citation guidelines for your chosen style. Pay attention to details such as punctuation, capitalization, and the order of information. Adhering to these guidelines demonstrates attention to detail and respect for academic conventions.

Leveraging Blainy for Citation

Blainy citation generator can help you make citations in the right format. It makes sure you give credit to the people who wrote the sources you used. Blainy can format your citations correctly, make a list of sources, and even check if your sources are accurate.

Blainy also has tools to help you rephrase sentences and paragraph expansion tools. Try Blainiy Now!

Overcoming Writer’s Block with Blainy

Do you ever get stuck when writing an essay? Blainy is here to help. It has tools to get you started and keep you going.

Blainy can help you make an outline, expand your ideas, and even rephrase sentences. It guides you through each step, so you can stay focused and keep writing.

Writing about someone’s life can be a fun and rewarding experience. You get to learn about their story and share it with others in a way that’s interesting and meaningful.

By following these steps, you can write a great essay. First, research and gather facts. Then, organize your ideas and start writing. Finally, revise your work to make sure it’s the best it can be.

Blainy can also help you with things like outlining, adding more details, and keeping track of your sources.

Don’t be afraid to try writing about someone’s life. With the right tools and a little practice, you can tell their story in a way that’s engaging and exciting.

What is a biographical essay?

A biographical essay is a written account of a person’s life, detailing their experiences, achievements, and impact on society.

How do I choose a subject for my biographical essay?

Select someone whose life story interests you and has ample available information for research. It can be a historical figure, a contemporary individual, or someone you personally know.

What are the key components of a biographical essay?

A biographical essay has three main parts. The introduction tells the reader about the person. The body tells the story of their life, either from start to finish or by focusing on important themes. The conclusion explains why the person is important.

How should I structure my biographical essay?

Your essay should have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Start with an introduction that tells the reader about the person. Next, write body paragraphs that tell the story of their life. You can tell the story in order from start to finish, or group events by theme. Finally, write a conclusion that wraps up the story. Make sure each part flows smoothly into the next.

How can Blainy assist in writing a biographical essay?

Blainy can help you outline, add more details to your writing, and even help you say things in different words. Blainy can also help you keep track of where you got your information. This can help you write a great essay and avoid getting stuck.

Dr. Marvin L. Smith

Dr. Marvin L. Smith, 45, is a tenured professor with over two decades of experience in his field. His research focuses on cutting-edge topics within his area of expertise, contributing significantly to the academic community. Dr. Smith has published numerous peer-reviewed articles in respected journals and authored several widely-used textbooks. Known for his ability to explain complex concepts clearly, he is a frequent contributor to academic and popular science publications. As a recognized expert, Dr. Smith often speaks at international conferences and continues to mentor the next generation of researchers. His work consistently pushes the boundaries of knowledge in his discipline. Dr. Marvin also write useful content on Medium and answer questions of young researchers and students on Quora .

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Guide to crafting an engaging biographical essay.

Writing a biographical essay can be a fascinating and rewarding experience as it allows you to delve into the life of an individual and uncover their accomplishments, struggles, and impact on society. Whether you are exploring the life of a historical figure, a famous artist, or even a family member, a biographical essay provides a platform to share their story with others.

Before you begin writing, it is essential to conduct thorough research on the person you are focusing on and gather relevant information about their background, achievements, and significant events in their life. This will help you build a comprehensive narrative that captures the essence of the individual and highlights their contributions to the world.

As you craft your biographical essay, remember to organize your thoughts carefully and present the information in a clear and engaging manner. Start by introducing the individual and providing context about their life, then delve into key events, experiences, and accomplishments that shaped their journey. Finally, conclude with reflections on their legacy and the impact they have had on society.

Key Elements for a Biography

When writing a biography, it is important to include key elements that will make the narrative engaging and informative. These elements help to create a well-rounded portrait of the subject and provide readers with a deeper understanding of their life and achievements.

1. Early Life: Begin with an overview of the subject’s childhood and early experiences, highlighting key events that shaped their future path.

2. Education and Career: Detail the subject’s educational background and career trajectory, including any significant milestones, achievements, or setbacks.

3. Personal Life: Explore the subject’s personal relationships, family dynamics, and interests outside of their professional pursuits.

4. Major Accomplishments: Highlight the subject’s most significant accomplishments, whether in their professional field, community involvement, or personal pursuits.

5. Challenges and Obstacles: Discuss the challenges and obstacles the subject faced throughout their life, and how they overcame them or were shaped by them.

6. Legacy and Impact: Reflect on the subject’s enduring legacy and the impact they have had on their field, community, or society at large.

7. Personal Insights: Include quotes, anecdotes, or reflections from the subject themselves or those who knew them well, providing insights into their personality, values, and motivations.

8. Conclusion: Summarize the key themes and insights presented in the biography, leaving readers with a deeper appreciation of the subject’s life and contributions.

Research and Gathering Information

Before you start writing your biographical essay, it’s essential to conduct thorough research and gather all the necessary information about the person you are writing about. Start by collecting basic details such as the individual’s full name, date of birth, place of birth, and significant life events. Search for reliable sources such as books, articles, interviews, and documentaries to gather accurate information.

Make sure to verify the information you find and cross-reference it with multiple sources to ensure its accuracy. Take notes of important dates, events, accomplishments, and personal details that will help you create a comprehensive and engaging biography. Organize your research materials and create an outline to structure your essay effectively.

Creating an Outline

Before you start writing your biographical essay, it’s essential to create an outline to organize your thoughts and information. An outline serves as a roadmap that guides you through the writing process, ensuring that you cover all the important aspects of the individual’s life.

When creating your outline, begin by identifying key milestones in the subject’s life, such as their early years, education, career, achievements, and legacy. Divide these milestones into sections and outline the key points you want to discuss under each section.

Make sure your outline flows logically and chronologically, allowing the reader to follow the subject’s life story in a coherent manner. Include transitions between sections to ensure a smooth narrative flow in your essay.

Remember, the outline is a flexible tool that can be adjusted as you conduct research and gather more information about the individual. Regularly revisit and refine your outline to ensure that it accurately reflects the structure and content of your biographical essay.

Developing the Body Paragraphs

Once you have gathered all the necessary information about the subject of your biographical essay, it is time to start developing the body paragraphs. Each body paragraph should focus on a specific aspect or event in the person’s life.

Organize your paragraphs: Arrange your paragraphs in a logical order to create a smooth and coherent narrative. You can choose to organize them chronologically, thematically, or based on significance.

Provide supporting details: Use specific examples, anecdotes, and quotes to support your arguments and bring the subject to life. These details will make your essay more engaging and informative.

Use transitions: Transition words and phrases like “furthermore,” “moreover,” and “on the other hand” help connect your ideas and guide the reader through your essay smoothly.

Stay focused: Make sure each paragraph maintains a clear focus on the main idea or theme you are discussing. Avoid straying off topic to keep your essay coherent.

Conclude each paragraph: End each paragraph with a clear concluding sentence that summarizes the main point and prepares the reader for the next section.

By following these key steps, you can effectively develop the body paragraphs of your biographical essay and create a compelling portrait of your subject.

Concluding the Biographical Essay

Wrapping up a biographical essay requires a thoughtful and reflective conclusion. In this final section, you should reiterate the key points about the person you have covered in your essay. Emphasize the significance of their life, achievements, and contributions. Consider how their story has impacted you or how it relates to broader historical or cultural themes.

Remember to leave your readers with a lasting impression. You might consider discussing the person’s legacy or highlighting the enduring lessons that can be learned from their experiences. Your conclusion should offer closure while still leaving room for reflection and further exploration of the individual’s life and influence.

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Biographies: The Stories of Humanity

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A biography is a story of a person's life, written by another author. The writer of a biography is called a biographer while the person written about is known as the subject or biographee.

Biographies usually take the form of a narrative , proceeding chronologically through the stages of a person's life. American author Cynthia Ozick notes in her essay "Justice (Again) to Edith Wharton" that a good biography is like a novel, wherein it believes in the idea of a life as "a triumphal or tragic story with a shape, a story that begins at birth, moves on to a middle part, and ends with the death of the protagonist."

A biographical essay is a comparatively short work of nonfiction  about certain aspects of a person's life. By necessity, this sort of essay  is much more selective than a full-length biography, usually focusing only on key experiences and events in the subject's life.

Between History and Fiction

Perhaps because of this novel-like form, biographies fit squarely between written history and fiction, wherein the author often uses personal flairs and must invent details "filling in the gaps" of the story of a person's life that can't be gleaned from first-hand or available documentation like home movies, photographs, and written accounts.

Some critics of the form argue it does a disservice to both history and fiction, going so far as to call them "unwanted offspring, which has brought a great embarrassment to them both," as Michael Holroyd puts it in his book "Works on Paper: The Craft of Biography and Autobiography." Nabokov even called biographers "psycho-plagiarists," meaning that they steal the psychology of a person and transcribe it to the written form.

Biographies are distinct from creative non-fiction such as memoir in that biographies are specifically about one person's full life story -- from birth to death -- while creative non-fiction is allowed to focus on a variety of subjects, or in the case of memoirs certain aspects of an individual's life.

Writing a Biography

For writers who want to pen another person's life story, there are a few ways to spot potential weaknesses, starting with making sure proper and ample research has been conducted -- pulling resources such as newspaper clippings, other academic publications, and recovered documents and found footage.  

First and foremost, it is the duty of biographers to avoid misrepresenting the subject as well as acknowledging the research sources they used. Writers should, therefore, avoid presenting a personal bias for or against the subject as being objective is key to conveying the person's life story in full detail.

Perhaps because of this, John F. Parker observes in his essay "Writing: Process to Product" that some people find writing a biographical essay "easier than writing an  autobiographical  essay. Often it takes less effort to write about others than to reveal ourselves." In other words, in order to tell the full story, even the bad decisions and scandals have to make the page in order to truly be authentic.

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Biographical Essay Examples: Learn from the Best

By Essaywriter

A biographical essay is a style of essay in which you describe a person’s life in your own words. We can ruminate on someone else’s life by reading a biographical essay. The goal of a biographical essay is to portray a person’s life in as much detail as possible so that the reader may understand them and their motivations.

In a biography essay, you must describe the subject’s true character and values, including all of their views and ideologies as well as all of their minor characteristics and any other information that would enable readers to relate to the subject.

A biographical essay is one of the numerous types of essays that you can encounter in college classes, particularly if you are attending courses in liberal arts fields like history or political science. You’ll receive a comprehensive overview of how to create a successful biography essay from this guide.

Kinds Of Biographical Essay Examples

A specialized type of history is a biography. It is a narrative of incidents based on the life of a single individual as an example. Here are some kinds of biographical essays.

1. Historical Figures

The biographical essays about living celebrities, athletes, Scientists, inventors, Business leaders, and politicians most frequently adopt the style of historical figures. A person’s life naturally resembles a story; it begins with birth and ends with death, with excitement and events taking place all along the way. While writing your biography essay, you should stick to this natural progression. Generally, you should start your essay with a historical figure’s birth and accompany them through the important events in their life till passing away.

This style of biography is most prevalent. These narratives incorporate a few facts into an informative story with the intention of leaving a certain impression, regardless of their integrity. This format’s strength is the most informative with specific outcomes.

2. Historical Academic

The academic biographical essay is a historical narrative that is based on a specific life. Academic biographical essays heavily rely on verified details and recognized achievements of an individual’s life.

Any lessons that these people have learned frequently get buried in an examination of the minuscule particulars of their lives. Academic historians will organize pertinent information around a person’s accomplishments.

How To Write a Biographical Essay

A biography essay must be written differently from a typical essay about a person. The goal of a biography essay is to convey the subject’s actual character. It can be used as a tactic to reveal a side of a well-known person that the general public is largely unaware of.

A typical biography essay should cover a lot more ground than only the subject’s creative endeavors. By reenacting the persona of the subject of your interest, you must create an atmosphere. In your essay, you must accurately portray the person’s experiences and life. It is a fascinating and exciting technique to discover more about a renowned individual.

Here are some steps you need to follow when you are writing a biographical essay.

1. Select a Topic

You might need to select a topic. The subject of your article ought to be well known. Authors, philosophers, activists, musicians, & political figures are among those with access to easily available knowledge. You must do these actions after selecting your subject.

• Visit the places where this person had a breakthrough or experienced something that changed their life. You will be able to relate to the event from that location better this way. You can also pinpoint the historical occurrences that took place during the life of your subject.
• Utilize all of the resources at your disposal to learn as much as you can about this character. Books, newspapers, journals, magazines, and reputable online media are all options. The data you want to explore will be easier to find if you have a list of questions.

2. Research and Writing

Your understanding of who your topic is, what they achieved, & why they are famous will become clearer as you read more about them. It’s ideal for reading from various sources because different authors will have different perspectives and facts about the individual you’ve chosen. Make notes of intriguing information, dates, events, and names while you conduct your investigation. Additionally, pay attention to strongly held beliefs, especially if they conflict with or are opposed to your topic.

• To compare the knowledge available on this subject, use a variety of sources. Establish interview dates with them if they are available. As an alternative, you might ask family members, friends, coworkers, siblings, and other close relatives for information. If there is data that you cannot discover from other sources, this strategy is essential.
• Create a plan for your essay. Unless your teacher specifies differently, your essay should adhere to the traditional five-paragraph format (Intro, Body Paragraphs, Conclusion). While you decide which concepts to include in each paragraph, your outline will assist you in keeping the data you obtained during your study organized, and then write your essay in clear words.

3. Critical Analysis

Writing an engaging biography essay is essential if you want to persuade your audience that the subject you are writing about is deserving of their attention. You must employ verifiable facts in order to provide a credible account of someone. As a result, it is advised to use academic sources for your references, such as books and journal articles.

After you’ve described your subject in detail, proofread your work to make sure you didn’t leave out any important information. Does your writing make sense, or are there any obvious gaps? Verify that you followed the necessary style guidelines and adhered to the correct formatting.

A biographical essay is a fascinating account of a person’s life.

Be aware that these articles mention well-known individuals, including politicians, musicians, artists, and innovators. Remember that you can write a biography of someone who is not well-known as long as you have a good cause to tell their story.

You must adhere to the above guidelines if you want to create a great biographical essay.

Biographical essays can be difficult to write, especially when you’re running out of time.

ThePaperExperts.com has written over 110,000 essays in the past 2 decades writing essays, including biographical essays, thesis, dissertations, and statistical assignments.

Our academic advisors are standing by to help and answer any questions you may have.

Visit our website: ThePaperExperts.com and reach out right now at 1-888-774-9994.

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How to Write a Biographical Sketch

Last Updated: March 9, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Gerald Posner . Gerald Posner is an Author & Journalist based in Miami, Florida. With over 35 years of experience, he specializes in investigative journalism, nonfiction books, and editorials. He holds a law degree from UC College of the Law, San Francisco, and a BA in Political Science from the University of California-Berkeley. He’s the author of thirteen books, including several New York Times bestsellers, the winner of the Florida Book Award for General Nonfiction, and has been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in History. He was also shortlisted for the Best Business Book of 2020 by the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 553,018 times.

Writing a biographical sketch can help you learn about a figure’s importance and see the world through their eyes. Since you can’t cover a person’s entire life in a sketch, try to focus on their biggest accomplishments, then build the sketch around that. You can even use this technique to write about yourself!

Example Sketches

Researching Your Subject

• For example, suppose you need to write a biographical sketch of poet who lived in the 19th century. Look up poets you’ve covered in class, browse your textbook or anthology of poems, and search online for poets that fit your assignment.
• After reading his blurb in your anthology, you might be interested in learning more about Charles Baudelaire, so you choose him for your sketch.

• For a major historical figure, you’ll probably have more results than you can handle. Search online for your historical figure and “authoritative biography” to find the most important sources.
• If you have trouble finding information about your subject, you might need to choose another option.

• If you’ve chosen a contemporary figure or famous person, searching online might be your best bet. The most credible sources would include reputable news publications, such as the BBC, The New York Times , and NPR.

• You should be able to track down sources at your library or through its interlibrary loan program. If an autobiography or published collection of letters are available, you could also purchase them online or at a bookstore.
• To find good secondary sources, use search terms such as "authoritative" or "definitive biography" of your figure.
• When you find scholarly articles about your figure, check their footnotes or references. You'll definitely want to acquire a book or article about your figure that's referenced in lots of other sources.

• Figure out which of the figure's achievements, qualities, work, and life experience you want to emphasize.

Crafting an Autobiographical Sketch

• For example, writing, "My proudest moment is when I was elected class president," simply states that you're in student government.
• Instead, write why you wanted to be class president: "On a school trip to the state capitol, my congressperson described public service to my class. As they spoke, I remember looking up in awe at the capitol building's towering dome. However, it wasn't awe that inspired my interest in politics; it was the notion that governing is service."

• Suppose a job description lists the skill "Cost management." Writing, "I cut operating costs by 17% at my prior position," just restates a line on your resume.
• Instead, write in your bio, "The complex purchasing system at my last position was like a many-headed Hydra. For every challenge I solved, 2 more came my way. Ultimately, I managed to conquer the beast, consolidated our vendors, negotiated new contracts, and cut our spending by 17%."

• Come up with a thesis as if you were writing about a historical figure. Instead of trying to cover everything you've ever done, focus on 2 or 3 key qualifications.
• Try summing yourself up in a thesis statement, such as "Jane Doe encountered hardships, but every pitfall provided an opportunity to grow." You don't have to include your thesis verbatim in your bio, but it can help you keep your writing focused.

Drafting Your Essay

• A thesis statement for a biographical sketch could be, “The principal themes of Charles Baudelaire’s poetry are rooted in his experience of urban life in Paris and his 1841 voyage to India.”
• If you're writing about yourself, focus on the achievements you're proudest of or those that are most relevant to an application. Additionally, it's usually best to focus on more recent accomplishments.

• For instance, your outline might look like this: I. Thesis: The principal themes of Charles Baudelaire’s poetry are rooted in his experience of urban life in Paris and his 1841 voyage to India. II. Emerging urbanism in Paris A. Describe city life in the 19th century B. Discuss Baudelaire and tavern culture C. Cite and analyze poetic elements: corruption of the city, melancholy, “Spleen” III. Romantic voyage A. Lay the context of the voyage in Romantic poetry B. Discuss Baudelaire’s trip to India C. Cite and analyze poetic elements: ships, the ocean, exoticism

• Your intro should let your reader know what to expect in the coming paragraphs. For instance: "Baudelaire's personal letters and journal entries detail his life in Paris and travel abroad. Analyzing examples from his body of work will demonstrate how these encounters with urbanism and exoticism laid the foundation of his poetry's principal themes."
• For an autobiography, summarize what makes you a winning applicant or state the main points you intend to make about yourself.
• If you're writing an autobiography in the third person, introduce yourself in the first paragraph: "Jane Doe is a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Georgia."

• For the body an autobiography, describe the events that impacted on you, challenges you overcame, or occasions when you honed your skills.
• Keep in mind your entire personal bio might only be a paragraph. You might introduce yourself in the first sentence, and the "body" might be 2 or 3 sentences long.

• A better sentence would convey exactly why Baudelaire was important. “Charles Baudelaire dismantled Romantic poetry’s unquestioned adoration of nature” is stronger and more specific.

Revising Your Draft

• Check for any places that seem confusing or leave you guessing. If you're not sure what you meant by a statement, your reader will definitely be lost.

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• ↑ https://penandthepad.com/write-impressive-biographical-sketch-4531922.html
• ↑ https://open.lib.umn.edu/writingforsuccess/chapter/11-4-strategies-for-gathering-reliable-information/
• ↑ https://www.readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/writers-workshop-biographical-sketch-1039.html?tab=4#session1
• ↑ https://www.educations.com/articles-and-advice/motivation-letter-for-studies-abroad-13564
• ↑ https://www.cs.cmu.edu/~sfinger/advice/advice.html#biosketches
• ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/deborahljacobs/2014/06/03/what-to-do-when-you-need-a-bio-rather-than-a-resume/#65cc18a34e43
• ↑ https://slc.berkeley.edu/you-start-writing-paper-guide-prewriting-techniques-0
• ↑ https://grammar.yourdictionary.com/grammar-rules-and-tips/tips-on-writing-a-biographical-sketch.html
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/academic_writing/conciseness/index.html

About This Article

Once you’ve chosen someone to write about in your biographical sketch, choose a key detail about the person’s life, then use that to write a thesis statement. Once you have your thesis, craft an outline made up of 4-5 facts that support your thesis statement. Then, start your essay by introducing the reader to your subject, then follow by describing your thesis and a brief summary of the rest of your essay. The body of your essay should describe facts from your subject’s life that support your thesis. For tips on choosing a figure for your sketch, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How To Write A Biography Essay And Get An A+

As a high school or college student, you have probably written dozens, if not hundreds, of essays of all types. However, a biographical essay is nothing like you have written before. In fact, despite seeming relatively easy, the task of writing a biography essay can get very confusing to inexperienced students.

Instead of your ideas, a biography essay utilizes facts, but it takes a lot of research and writing skills to write a biography essay that will impress both your peers and your professor. Our   essay writing service has prepared a detailed guide on how to write a good biography essay, and here is everything you need to know.

What Is a Biographical Essay?

Before you can find out how to write a biography essay, you need to learn the answer to the essential question: what is a biography essay? A biographical essay is a type of academic paper where the author tells the story of someone’s life.

In some ways, biographical essays are similar to other types of essays, especially narrative papers. They both tell a story that should captivate and inform the readers. However, a biographical essay focuses solely on the story of one person and often includes an analysis of the person’s personality, not just a list of significant events from the subject’s life story.

Typically, the biography essay format deals with the life story of another person. In some cases, you may be tasked with writing a biography about yourself. In that case, your paper will be called an autobiography essay, and it’s a common assignment in high school and during the college application process.

At first glance, a biography essay may seem like just another type of written assignments that you simply have to do for a good grade. However, a bibliography essay is actually a very important piece of writing that allows you to tell a story of another person’s greatness, significance, or vulnerability through his life events.

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Biography essay outline.

Even though a biographical essay is a unique form of writing, it still requires you to follow a specific format and structure. The biography essay outline helps you keep your thoughts in order and never miss a single significant fact or quote.

So, how to write a biography essay outline? Unless otherwise specified by your professor, you should follow the standard five-paragraph essay structure. It means that your biography essay outline will include the following chapters:

Introduction

• Body paragraph #1
• Body paragraph #2
• Body paragraph #3

Now that you know what is biography essay and how to create a good biography essay outline, it is time to finally find out how to write a biography essay. In this part of our guide, we will focus on a personal biography essay, or autobiography.

Students are often wondering: how to start off a biography essay to make a good impression on the readers? The introduction is the first part of your paper the readers will encounter, and you should pay extra attention to what you write in this chapter.

How to write an introduction for a biography essay? Start with a hook — an attention-grabbing sentence that sets the tone for the paper. It can be a personal anecdote, a fact, or a quote from someone else describing you.

In the rest of the introduction, write a little about yourself without giving up any important facts —  save those for the upcoming chapters of the essay. Finish the introduction with a thesis statement, where you should describe the essence of your biography essay.

Body paragraphs

If you went for the classic five-paragraph structure with your biography, you will have three body paragraphs. There is no standard way to distribute your biography between those three paragraphs, but since you are writing about yourself — a young person whose later years are still ahead of them — you can use the following structure:

• Body paragraph #1: Childhood
• Body paragraph #2: School years
• Body paragraph #3: Current situation

Since it’s a personal essay, you probably won’t use too much research to support your claims, which will be based on your own life. However, you should carefully choose the wording, not to exaggerate your achievements. Be as close to your own life events as possible.

A conclusion is an essential part of any essay, and it’s equally true for a biography essay. Since you are retelling your own life story, and it’s difficult to assess your contribution to the society simply because you are only at the beginning of your own career, you should write about the way your life until this point impacted your development as a person.

How to Write a Biography Essay About Someone Else?

Our essay service has already covered how to write a personal biography essay, but in most cases, you will be tasked with writing a biography essay about a different person — usually, someone famous and significant in their own field. This person can be dead or alive, but they will likely have a rich biography that is relatively easy to write about.

The key to writing a strong biography essay is to rely strictly on facts, not on fiction. It doesn’t mean that you should simply list the facts from the person’s life story without any opinions of your own, but those opinions and assumptions must always be based on the official statements from the person’s biography.

Additional Tips on Writing a Biography

Wondering how to write a biography essay to make it absolutely flawless? Check out these extra writing tips from our expert team of authors that specialize in essay writing in the United States:

• Even though that might seem obvious, you should always use a chronological order when listing the events in a biography essay. There are a few situations where a reverse chronological order also works, but a standard chronological order is easier for the readers to comprehend.
• Not every event from the person’s life is worth mentioning in a biography essay. Before beginning to writing your essay, you need to study the person’s biography in detail. Then, write down the events and experiences that influenced their life and achievements, leaving behind the more insignificant facts.
• When you are writing a biography essay, your job is to give an impartial insight into the life of your subject and assess their contribution to the world. Your readers don’t want to see any generalizations or your own opinions, especially if they are negative — there are other genres of writing where you can do that.

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biographical

Definition of biographical

Examples of biographical in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'biographical.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1714, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Dictionary Entries Near biographical

biographize

Cite this Entry

“Biographical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/biographical. Accessed 11 Aug. 2024.

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He's gathering biographical data for his book on Milton.

a biographical dictionary.

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Word History and Origins

Origin of biographical 1

Example Sentences

A biographical note in the book even calls Fox “one of the foremost explanatory writers and literary stylists in American journalism.”

This struck me as an interesting premise for a story about his life, something which adds a layer to the biographical account of his life.

Kron also wrote the biographical “Well,” a family memoir centered on the relationship of mothers and daughters, and wellness.

Richards brought neurobiological perspectives to an understanding of our literary mind in an era when historical and biographical criticism was the norm, and the teaching of literature remained based on grammar and rhetoric.

Modi’s campaign for prime minister in 2014, which relied heavily on the biographical narrative of his journey from a lowly tea-seller to the highest levels of politics, resonated with this expanding class of the upwardly mobile.

You have focused on individual events and ideas in your books about Lincoln rather than the cradle-to-grave biographical approach.

“Reagan is a difficult biographical subject,” Darman acknowledged when I interviewed him recently.

Paulkovich has written nothing about himself—we have no biographical data on him.

But the biographical inattention to his voluminous body of written work nonetheless has been a strange oversight.

His method, throughout the book, is biographical, not historical.

In the biographical memoir of La Bruyre, I have only stated what is known of him, which is very little.

All these measures were important and were carefully drawn; but their merits cannot be explained in a biographical notice.

His principal work is a Biographical Dictionary, of which several editions were printed.

Lewes's Biographical History of Philosophy has the merit of clearness, and is very interesting, but rather superficial.

The biographical details of this period of Chopin's life have to be drawn almost wholly from his letters.

The Real Reason People Aren’t Having Kids

It’s a need that government subsidies and better family policy can’t necessarily address.

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The facts of the so-called fertility crisis are well publicized: Birth rates in the United States have been trending down for nearly two decades, and other wealthy countries are experiencing the same. Among those proposing solutions to reverse the trend, the conventional wisdom goes that if only the government were to offer more financial support to parents, birth rates would start ticking up again.

But what if that wisdom is wrong?

In 1960, American women had, on average, 3.6 children; in 2023, the total fertility rate (the average number of children a woman expects to have in her lifetime) was 1.62 , the lowest on record and well below the replacement rate of 2.1. Meanwhile, rates of childlessness are rising: In 2018, more than one in seven women aged 40 to 44 had no biological children, compared with one in 10 in 1976. And according to a new report from Pew Research Center , the share of American adults younger than 50 who say they are unlikely to ever have children rose 10 percentage points between 2018 and 2023, to 47 percent. In mainstream American discourse, explanations for these trends tend to focus on economic constraints: People are deciding not to have kids because of the high cost of child care, a lack of parental leave, and the wage penalty mothers face. Some policy makers (and concerned citizens) suggest that expensive government interventions could help change people’s minds.

But data from other parts of the world, including countries with generous family policies, suggest otherwise. Today, every OECD country except Israel has a below-replacement fertility rate, and the speed of the decline during the past decade has outpaced demographers’ expectations. In 2022, the average fertility rate of European Union countries was 1.46 ; in 2023, South Korea’s was 0.72 , the lowest in the world.

South Korea has spent more than $200 billion over the past 16 years on policies meant to boost fertility, including monthly stipends for parents, expanded parental leave, and subsidized prenatal care—yet its total fertility rate fell by 25 percent in that time. France spends a higher percentage of its GDP on family than any other OECD member country, but last year saw its lowest number of births since World War II . Even the Nordic countries , with their long-established welfare states, child-care guarantees, and policies of extended parental leave, are experiencing sharp fertility declines.

Policy shifts that make life easier and less expensive for parents are worthwhile in their own right. But so far, such improvements haven’t changed most countries’ low-fertility rates. This suggests the existence of another, under-discussed reason people aren’t having kids—one that, I have come to believe, has little to do with policy and everything to do with a deep but unquantifiable human need.

Read: To have or not have children

That need is for meaning . In trying to solve the fertility puzzle, thinkers have cited people’s concerns over finances, climate change, political instability, or even potential war. But in listening closely to people’s stories, I’ve detected a broader thread of uncertainty—about the value of life and a reason for being. Many in the current generation of young adults don’t seem totally convinced of their own purpose or the purpose of humanity at large, let alone that of a child. It may be that for many people, absent a clear sense of meaning, the perceived challenges of having children outweigh any subsidy the government might offer.

In his 1960s work on the economics of the family, the Nobel Prize–winning economist Gary Becker theorized that household decisions, including fertility choices, could be analyzed through an economic lens. More specifically, children could be analogized to goods, like a house or a car; the number that parents had was related to what they could afford in terms of time and money. By this logic, making the goods less expensive—expanding household budgets via subsidies, return-to-career guarantees, and other financial carrots—should be enough to push parents to have more kids.

Governments have generally hewed to this assumption when launching pronatal policies. But two new books exploring why people do or don’t have children—works that take wildly different approaches to the question—suggest that this method is flawed.

Read: Would you have a baby if you won the lottery?

In Hannah’s Children: The Women Quietly Defying the Birth Dearth , Catherine Ruth Pakaluk, an economist and a Catholic mother of eight, compiles interviews with 55 women from across the United States who have five or more children—hers is a qualitative study of Americans happily breaking from the low-birth-rate norm. Connecting the author and her unusual subjects (only about 5 percent of U.S. mothers have five or more kids) is a shared certainty that children are an unqualified good, and that raising them is an activity freighted with positive meaning.

Then there are those who are much less sure. In What Are Children For? On Ambivalence and Choice , Anastasia Berg, an academic and editor at The Point , and Rachel Wiseman, an editor at the same magazine, engage literature, philosophy, and anti-natalist texts to wrestle with whether children are worth having at all. The decision is described as “paralyzing” and “anxiety-provoking,” to be approached with trepidation (even though the authors find individual clarity by the end). But their book echoes Pakaluk’s in one striking respect: Both works share the view that current political strategies for encouraging people to have children are lacking a crucial element. “As attractive as economics may be as a solution to the riddle of the growing ambivalence about having children, it is partial at best,” Berg and Wiseman write. Pakaluk observes, “Cash incentives and tax relief won’t persuade people to give up their lives. People will do that for God, for their families, and for their future children.” In other words, no amount of money or social support will inspire people to have children—not unless there is some deeper certainty that doing so makes sense.

In many quarters, that sort of certainty has become elusive. Indeed, Berg and Wiseman dwell on its opposite: anxiety about whether having children is good or whether it’s an imposition, a decision that might deprive a person of individual fulfillment or even make the world worse in the long run—by, for instance, contributing to climate change, overpopulation, or the continuation of regressive gender norms. “Becoming a parent,” they write, “can seem less like a transition and more like throwing yourself off a cliff.”

The authors touch on the standard narratives of why young people are delaying or forgoing children—financial anxiety, difficulty finding a partner, worries that having kids will be incompatible with their career—but these they describe as “externals,” borrowing a term from the family therapist and author Ann Davidman, not the core concern. One of their interviewees notes that if money were no object, she would be “at least neutral” on the subject of having a child, which is still some distance from positive. Instead, more existential worries emerge, pointing to a loss of stabilizing self-confidence among recent generations, or to the lack of an overarching framework (religious or otherwise) that might help guide people toward a “good” life. “The old frameworks, whatever they were, no longer seem to apply,” Berg and Wiseman write. “And the new ones provide us with hardly any answers at all.”

Read: The two ways to raise a country’s birth rate

The mothers whom Pakaluk profiles approach childbearing with far less ambiguity. As one told her, “I just have to trust that there’s a purpose to all of it.” Her interviewees’ lives are scaffolded by a sincere belief in providence, in which their religious faith often plays a major role. These mothers have confidence that their children can thrive without the finest things in life, that family members can help sustain one another, and that financial and other strains can be trusted to work themselves out. And although the obvious concerns are present—women describe worries about preserving their physical health, professional standing, and identity—they aren’t determinative. Ann, a mother of six, tells Pakaluk that she doesn’t feel “obliged” to have a large family but that she sees “additional children as a greater blessing than travel, than career … I hope we still get to do some of those things, but I think this is more important. Or a greater good.”

It’s a deceptively simple claim—and reinforces the notion that if people are going to have children, they need more than a hunch that human life is valuable. “It is not just the possibility of goodness but its actuality that fuels our deepest longing to ensure a human future,” Berg and Wiseman propose. And yet, we live in a time when even those who are certain about having kids are sometimes treated with skepticism. To proclaim that parenthood could be a positive experience is, in some circles, slightly gauche . “To assert the goodness of one’s own life,” the authors write, “is to risk coming across as privileged, or just hopelessly naive.”

Contrast that with the attitude of Hannah, a mother of seven who tells Pakaluk that each new child “brings benefit to the family and to the world.” She and the other mothers exemplify what happens when meaning is deeply internalized: Many children tend to result—and, according to these women, bring joy with them.

Of course, joy is a hard thing for any policy to promise. Government agencies rely on stats—income, years, “productivity”—to make the case for interventions, and tend to overlook the unmeasurable. Intangible incentives such as purpose, belonging, and love don’t always seem rational. As Robert F. Kennedy put it in a 1968 speech at the University of Kansas, delivered less than three months before he was assassinated: “The gross national product does not allow for the health of our children, the quality of their education, or the joy of their play … It measures neither our wit nor our courage, neither our wisdom nor our learning, neither our compassion nor our devotion to our country; it measures everything, in short, except that which makes life worthwhile.”

Kennedy was, essentially, urging Americans to pursue meaning, suggesting that only by doing so would they have the fortitude to fight despair. But “meaning” is not something governments can easily provide; it tends to stem from uniting in the face of undesirable crises (wars, pandemics) or from the sorts of broadly enforced norms (religious, cultural) that many no longer share. (This could be a clue as to why Israel has bucked the low-birth-rate trend: The religious edict to “be fruitful and multiply” is an accepted part of the national culture, and childbearing is viewed as a contribution to a collective goal.)

Politically, there’s very little upside—and often significant downside—in pointing to abstractions without easy solutions. If falling birth rates can be attributed to a loss of meaning, the question then becomes if there can be any government-based solution to fertility decline. People debating whether to have children seem to be seeking certainty that life is a good thing, that more life would thus be better, and that assistance, if needed, will arrive. Government policy can help with the last part. The first two assurances will most likely come only from another source.

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Guest Essay

50 Years Ago, the World Trade Center Was Home to the Art Crime of the Century

By Colum McCann

Mr. McCann is the author of “Let the Great World Spin,” which takes a fictional look at Philippe Petit’s walk, and the forthcoming “Twist.”

Fifty years ago on Wednesday, the French high-wire artist Philippe Petit carried his life a quarter of a mile through the New York City sky on a tightrope. When asked why, he said it was simply because the World Trade Center towers were there.

“If I see two towers, I have to walk,” he told The New York Times. Later he added, “Anything that is giant and man-made strikes me in an awesome way and calls me.”

The human need that Mr. Petit met with his walk is still with us. We are living in high-wire times, with anxiety and fracture all around us, and it is the job of the artist to show that we can, in fact, get from one side to the other.

When I think of the Frenchman, he remains high in the air, a distant flyman walking across a three-quarter-inch steel wire in an act so outrageous that it still shakes my soul out. His imaginative act catches in my throat and reveals a truth that is often obscured or degraded: that we can confront, and even triumph over, the seemingly impossible. His walk provides a pulse of relief as an antidote to despair. He didn’t defy gravity; he aligned himself with it, and in so doing he allowed us to defy our own possible falling down.

Mr. Petit’s walk was a long-planned act of subterfuge. He had seen sketches of the towers in a magazine while sitting in a dentist’s office in Paris at age 18. Six years later he did several reconnaissance missions to check out the towers as they were under construction. He honed his tightrope skills at home in a French meadow, asking friends to shake the wire to see if they could knock him off. The night before his self-described coup, he and his team smuggled the wire in and rigged it from one tower to the other, using a bow and arrow to shoot a fishing line across the distance, followed eventually by the cable, which was winched and tightened. It was an audacious act of nighttime engineering, half jury-rigged, half daring genius.

He began at the south tower at about 7:20 in the morning. He stood 1,350 feet above the ground. The city had only just begun waking beneath him, a gorgeous catastrophe of sight and sound. He stepped out in his buffalo-hide shoes, carrying a 42-pound balancing bar. He lay down on the wire. He saluted the birds. At least six times, he negotiated the 131 feet between the two towers. The city was stunned. The early morning radio D.J.s were in awe. The cops were apoplectic and tried to coax him in from either side.

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