How Well Do You Know About Biographical Literature? Quiz

A literary biography is a comprehensive exploration of an individual’s life, intertwining historical facts with narrative conventions. It provides a detailed account of the subject’s personal and professional journey, shedding light on their experiences, achievements, and influences.

Biographical criticism is a unique form of literary criticism that analyzes a writer’s biography to establish a connection between their personal experiences and their literary creations. It seeks to understand how the author’s life may have influenced their work, providing a deeper insight into the themes and motifs present in their literature.

Crafting a literary biography requires a delicate balance. The biographer must weigh the commentary on the subject-author’s complete body of works, or oeuvre, against the biographical content. This balance is crucial to creating a coherent narrative that accurately represents the subject-author’s life and literary accomplishments.

The role of a literary biographer extends beyond merely chronicling the subject’s life. They are also tasked with integrating discussions of the subject-author’s literary works into the biography, thereby offering a holistic view of the author’s creative process and literary contributions.

“The Diary of a Young Girl” is a poignant firsthand account of Anne Frank’s experiences while hiding from the Nazis during World War II. This autobiographical work provides a deeply personal perspective on the horrors of war and the resilience of the human spirit, making it a significant contribution to Holocaust literature.

The New Critics of the 1920s introduced the term “biographical fallacy” to critique the tendency of some critics to overlook the imaginative genesis of literature. They argued that an excessive focus on the author’s life could lead to a neglect of the inherent artistic value and independent significance of the literary work itself.

“The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin” is a seminal work that offers valuable insights into Franklin’s life, achievements, and philosophical views. As one of the most famous autobiographies, it paints a vivid picture of Franklin’s multifaceted personality and his profound impact on American history.

Samuel Johnson, a prominent figure in literary criticism, extensively employed biographical criticism in his work “Lives of the Poets” (1779–81). His approach underscored the importance of understanding an author’s life to fully appreciate their literary contributions.

W.H. Auden, a renowned poet and critic, expressed a critical view of biographies of writers. He stated, “Biographies of writers whether written by others or themselves are always superfluous and usually in bad taste.” His statement reflects a belief that the focus should be on the works themselves rather than the personal lives of the authors.

“I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” is Maya Angelou’s first autobiography, which chronicles her childhood and early adult experiences. The book delves into themes of racism, trauma, and resilience, providing a powerful exploration of Angelou’s personal struggles and triumphs. Her candid portrayal of her life experiences has made this work a cornerstone of modern American literature.