Author Biography Research
When we study literature, it's important to find something out about the author of the work. What has happened in a person's life will greatly affect the way in which they will attempt to influence you. A brief biography can tell you what they know about, how they feel towards God, government, family, and other people.
Often, the way a person writes and what they choose to write about will change as they go through life. Knowing about the person and when they wrote the work helps us to understand it better. If someone is happy and feels blessed by God, they may write happy stories with lessons about honoring God. If someone feels sad or forgotten, they may write in such a way as to discourage others from believing in God's grace and love.
It is important to recognize the point-of-view, or perspective, of an author. This helps the reader determine the truth of what is read and what to think about the writing. Use spiritual discernment in evaluating an author's biography. Is there information available to show whether he spent his years wisely or recklessly? Did he experience grief or loss in his life which left him humble and spiritual? Or did he use his sorrow as an excuse to become bitter and express hopelessness in his writing? Can you trust his philosophy of life, or should you be on your guard?
To prepare an Author Biography you need to find the following information:
· The author’s name, place of birth, years of birth and death.
· What kind of family did the author have growing up and as an adult?
· Tell about the author's education, occupation and religious beliefs.
· What time period in history did he/she live in when the writing was done?
· Relative historical or political situations that may have influenced the author.
· If possible, find a photograph or drawing of the person. Add any other interesting visual aids if available (map of area, their home, etc.).
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