5 Differences Between Biography and Autobiography

Although the phrases “autobiography” and “biography” are sometimes used synonymously, they refer to essentially different types of literary works. Both entail chronicling a person’s life, but the main differences are in who wrote them and how they saw it. For students, researchers, and general readers who want to interact with life stories in an effective manner, it is imperative that they comprehend these distinctions. To shed light on these literary forms, this essay examines five significant distinctions between autobiographies and biographies.

1. Authorship

One of the most significant differences between a biography and an autobiography is the authorship. A biography is written by someone other than the subject of the book, while an autobiography is written by the person whose life story is being told.

• Biography: Since a biography is composed by another individual, it often involves extensive research, interviews, and collection of historical records to construct an accurate and objective account of the subject’s life. Biographers analyze the person’s life, gather facts, and present them in a structured manner.
• Autobiography: An autobiography is a self-written account of one’s own life. The author narrates personal experiences, thoughts, and reflections, making it a firsthand account. It is often subjective and shaped by personal biases and perspectives.

2. Objectivity vs. Subjectivity

The level of objectivity in biographies and autobiographies varies significantly. Since biographies are written by external authors, they aim for objectivity, whereas autobiographies tend to be more subjective.

• Biography: A biography provides a balanced and objective perspective on the person’s life. Biographers rely on verified sources such as documents, records, and testimonies from friends, family, and colleagues. Their goal is to present an accurate portrayal rather than a personal interpretation.
• Autobiography: Autobiographies are inherently subjective because they are written by the person experiencing the events. The author may include personal emotions, thoughts, and opinions, which can make the account more intimate but also potentially biased. Autobiographies reflect the author’s personal understanding of their life rather than an external evaluation.

3. Writing Style and Perspective

Another major distinction between biography and autobiography is the perspective from which the story is told.

• Biography: Biographies are written in the third person. This allows the biographer to provide a broader view of the subject’s life, incorporating different viewpoints and sources of information. The third-person perspective also helps maintain a level of detachment, making the narrative more analytical.
• Autobiography: Autobiographies are written in the first person since the author is recounting their own experiences. This first-person narrative gives readers direct access to the author’s thoughts and emotions, making the storytelling more personal and immersive.

4. Scope and Depth of Information

Biographies and autobiographies often differ in the way information is presented and the level of depth involved in storytelling.

• Biography: Since biographies are written by an external author, they often cover a broader perspective. Biographers conduct extensive research, including background information, historical context, and external analyses. This makes biographies more comprehensive and detailed, providing readers with a well-rounded view of the subject’s life.
• Autobiography: Autobiographies focus primarily on personal experiences and memories. While they may provide details about historical events or other people, the main focus remains on the author’s perspective. As a result, autobiographies may not always provide a full, objective historical account but rather a deeply personal narrative.

5. Purpose and Audience

The purpose and intended audience of biographies and autobiographies also vary significantly, influencing how the content is structured and presented.

• Biography: The main purpose of a biography is to inform and educate readers about a person’s life from an external point of view. Biographies are often used in academic settings, historical documentation, and media publications. They are typically aimed at a wide audience, including scholars, students, and general readers interested in the subject’s life.
• Autobiography: Autobiographies are usually written to share personal experiences, provide inspiration, or offer a deeper understanding of the author’s journey. Many public figures, such as politicians, celebrities, and activists, write autobiographies to express their thoughts and experiences. These works appeal to readers interested in personal stories and firsthand accounts of life events.

Although biographies and autobiographies share the common goal of narrating an individual’s life, they differ in authorship, objectivity, writing style, depth of information, and purpose. Biographies provide an external and objective view, often using various sources to create a comprehensive narrative. In contrast, autobiographies are personal reflections written in the first person, offering a subjective and intimate account of the author’s life. Understanding these differences can help readers choose the type of life story that best suits their interests and needs. Whether you seek an unbiased historical account or a personal and emotional journey, both genres offer valuable insights into the lives of remarkable individuals.

Why do People Have Autobiographies?

For decades, autobiographies have been an important literary genre that let people share their life stories in their own words. They offer firsthand knowledge of historical occurrences, societal shifts, and personal experiences. Autobiographies serve a variety of objectives for both ordinary people with unusual experiences and well-known political figures and celebrities. However, what motivates people to create autobiographies? Why do they want to record their lives? The main motivations for people writing autobiographies are examined here.

1. Preserving Personal History

One of the primary reasons people write autobiographies is to document and preserve their personal history. Life is a journey filled with significant events, lessons, and transformations. Many individuals feel a strong desire to ensure that their stories are recorded for future generations. This is particularly common among people who have experienced unique or historically significant events, such as wars, revolutions, or groundbreaking social changes. By writing an autobiography, they create a lasting record of their lives that can be passed down to their descendants.

2. Inspiring Others

Many autobiographies serve as sources of inspiration and motivation. People who have overcome adversity, achieved remarkable success, or made significant contributions to society often share their journeys to inspire others. Readers can find encouragement and hope in the struggles and triumphs of the author. For example, autobiographies of individuals like Nelson Mandela, Malala Yousafzai, and Helen Keller have inspired millions around the world to fight for justice, education, and perseverance in the face of challenges.

3. Self-Reflection and Healing

Writing an autobiography can be a therapeutic process for many individuals. It allows them to reflect on their past, understand their experiences, and come to terms with certain events. This is especially true for people who have faced trauma, loss, or difficult life circumstances. By putting their thoughts and emotions into words, they often find healing and closure. Expressing one’s story on paper can be a way of making sense of the past and moving forward with a renewed sense of purpose.

4. Educating and Informing

Some individuals write autobiographies to educate others about particular aspects of life, culture, or history. By sharing their experiences, they provide readers with firsthand knowledge that may not be available in history books or other forms of media. For example, autobiographies of former slaves, war veterans, or individuals from marginalized communities offer valuable insights into historical and social realities that might otherwise be overlooked. These narratives contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of history and human experiences.

5. Setting the Record Straight

Public figures, such as politicians, actors, athletes, and business leaders, often write autobiographies to clarify misconceptions about their lives and careers. When people reach a certain level of fame, their lives are frequently subjected to speculation, rumors, and misinformation. Writing an autobiography provides them with the opportunity to present their side of the story and set the record straight. This allows them to control their narrative and ensure that their legacy is accurately represented.

6. Leaving a Legacy

Autobiographies also serve as a means of leaving a legacy behind. Many individuals, especially those who have made significant contributions to society, want to ensure that their knowledge, experiences, and achievements are remembered. Writing an autobiography allows them to share their wisdom, philosophies, and life lessons with future generations. For example, entrepreneurs and innovators like Steve Jobs and Elon Musk have documented their journeys to inspire and guide aspiring professionals in their respective fields.

7. Entertaining and Engaging Readers

Not all autobiographies are written for serious or educational purposes—some are crafted to entertain and engage readers. Many autobiographies contain humorous, dramatic, or intriguing life stories that captivate audiences. Memoirs of celebrities, comedians, and adventure-seekers often focus on entertaining readers while offering glimpses into the fascinating aspects of their lives. These autobiographies are often filled with amusing anecdotes, thrilling experiences, and behind-the-scenes details that keep readers engaged.

8. Personal and Professional Growth

Writing an autobiography can also be an exercise in personal and professional growth. The process of documenting one’s life story requires deep introspection, organization, and storytelling skills. Many authors find that writing their autobiography helps them gain clarity about their own lives, values, and aspirations. Additionally, professionals in various fields may write autobiographies to establish credibility and authority in their industry. A well-written autobiography can enhance an individual’s reputation and open doors to new opportunities.

9. Sharing Unique Experiences

Some people have had highly unusual or extraordinary experiences that are worth sharing with the world. These can include survival stories, remarkable career paths, or unusual life circumstances. Individuals who have traveled extensively, lived in unique cultures, or witnessed rare events often feel compelled to document their experiences. Their stories provide readers with insights into worlds they may never encounter firsthand, enriching their understanding of different lifestyles and perspectives.

10. Financial Gain

In some cases, autobiographies are written as a means of generating income. Well-known public figures, celebrities, and influential individuals often receive lucrative book deals to share their life stories. Publishers and readers alike are willing to pay for compelling personal narratives, especially when the author has a significant following. Even lesser-known individuals can find financial success if their story is particularly captivating or resonates with a broad audience.

Conclusion

Autobiographies are powerful tools for self-expression, education, inspiration, and legacy-building. Whether written for personal reflection, historical documentation, or entertainment, they serve as a window into the lives of individuals from all walks of life. People write autobiographies for a variety of reasons, including preserving personal history, inspiring others, seeking healing, educating readers, and leaving a lasting legacy. Whatever the motivation, autobiographies remain an important literary form that continues to shape our understanding of human experiences.