biograafia

Biograafia is a written account of a person's life, typically presenting verifiable facts about notable events, relationships, roles, and contributions. It can be published as a standalone work or as part of encyclopedias, dictionaries, or scholarly studies, and is usually intended to inform readers about the subject's life and significance.

Etymology: The term derives from Greek bios (life) and graphein (to write); in Estonian usage, biograafia denotes a formal life history, often produced by someone other than the subject. It is distinct from elulugu, which more broadly means a life story and can be less formal or comprehensive.

Content and methods: A biography commonly covers early life, education, career, major achievements, personal details, and the subject's influence or legacy. It relies on primary sources such as documents, letters, and interviews, as well as secondary literature, and aims for a neutral, evidence-based presentation rather than mere narration.

Forms and scope: Biographies may be concise profiles, extended narratives, or part of biographical dictionaries and encyclopedias. Scholarly biographies often analyze the subject's motives, context, and historical impact, while inclusion of autobiographical material may occur in hybrid works or memoirs when the subject self-describes portions of their life.

Purpose and audience: Biographies serve educational and cultural purposes, helping readers understand a person’s life within broader historical, social, and intellectual contexts. They are used by researchers, students, and the general public as references for facts, chronology, and interpretation.