Autobiography

This book offers a thorough introduction to autobiography, exploring its historical context and the evolution of the genre over time.

This book serves as an essential introduction to the study of autobiography, providing a comprehensive historical overview of autobiographical writing from St. Augustine to the present day. It poses the intriguing question of whether all writing is inherently autobiographical, suggesting that every writer inevitably draws from their own life experiences. The updated edition of Autobiography includes a wealth of new material that reflects the evolving landscape of autobiographical criticism.

The text explores various forms of the genre, ranging from confessions and narratives to memoirs and diaries. It examines the uses of autobiography within their historical and cultural contexts, shedding light on prominent autobiographical writers such as St. Augustine, Bunyan, Boswell, Rousseau, and Wordsworth. Additionally, it highlights non-canonical autobiographies by women, offering a more inclusive perspective on the genre's development.

Incorporating discussions on twentieth-century autobiography, the book addresses women's writing, black and postcolonial narratives, and personal criticism. A new chapter focuses on narrative techniques and recent trends, including the rise of blogs and literary memoirs. By combining theoretical insights with engaging readings of significant texts, Autobiography emerges as an ideal resource for those interested in this captivating genre.