Biography

Biography is a literary genre that narrates a person’s life story as told by someone else. In this genre, details such as the person’s birth, education, work, achievements, personality traits, and sometimes their contributions to society are included. Biographical texts aim to present the life of a historical or contemporary figure using documents and accurate information.

The genre of biography dates back to ancient times. In classical Greece and Rome, the lives of important figures were documented. In Turkish literature, the earliest examples of biography are known as “tezkire.” Tezkires described the lives, works, and personalities of poets.

Especially after the Tanzimat period, the genre of biography developed in its modern form and became more widespread alongside journalism. Today, biographical writings can be found in many formats including books, magazines, documentaries, and the internet.

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• It is based on real events.
• It is written in chronological order.
• The subject’s inner world and personality traits may also be described.
• It must be impartial and objective.
• It is grounded in documents and reliable sources.

The life of a historical figure is narrated from birth to death.

📘 Example: The life story of Fatih Sultan Mehmet

Real events are presented in novel form using fictionalized narrative techniques.

📘 Example: A scientist’s childhood told as a story

It is produced in the form of films or television programs.

It uses simple language, illustrations, and an educational structure. The subjects often possess inspiring qualities.

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• It introduces them to exemplary figures.
• It helps them learn values such as perseverance, honesty, and diligence.
• It develops their imagination while learning about historical figures.
• It inspires them to reflect on their own lives and goals.

• “Biography – Autobiography – Monography”, Turkish Literature, https://www.turkedebiyati.org/biyografi-otobiyografi-monografi/
• Sadıkoğlu, S. “What Is Biography – Autobiography?”, sonersadikoglu.com, https://www.sonersadikoglu.com/biyografi---otobiyografi.html
• MEB. “Turkish Language and Literature 9th Grade Lesson Explanation: Biography”, OGM Material, https://ogmmateryal.eba.gov.tr/panel/upload/pdf/yzb3idjdw50.pdf