Biography is many things. It is the study of significant and ordinary individuals; it is the study of families and groups; it can shed light on specific historical periods and problems; it can provide a way of accessing individual and collective experience; it can illuminate the whole process of social and historical change. This course challenges students to think critically and creatively about the writing of biography in all its forms. What is the relationship between biography and history, biography and theory, biography and fiction? How do biographical studies incorporate theory? Should historians use different approaches to biography depending on the culture and/or gender of their subjects? How important is the relationship between biographers and their subjects? What special problems face the biographer of living subjects, or subjects in living memory? Through exploring questions such as these, students will develop a critical understanding of the complex issues surrounding the writing of biography.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Describe and assess various approaches to researching and writing biography

2. Understand the relationship between biography, history and fiction

3. Evaluate new forms of biography and life writing such as those developed through feminist, postcolonial and Indigenous theories and approaches

4. Understand the uses of biography and life story in the humanities and social sciences

5. Demonstrate skills in researching and writing short critical biographical studies

Participation in online forums, 1000 words (10%)

Critical review, 1500 words (25%)

Biographical essay, 3000 words (50%)

Seminar presentation (15%)

Students are expected to spend approximately 120 hours on this course, working through the reading program, contributing to online discussions and completing the assessment tasks. 

There is no prerequisite, other than meeting the standard required for entry into a Masters by coursework.

Recommended Courses: Other courses offered from the Master in Biographical Research and Writing program.

None. Readings will be provided at the beginning of the course.

This course makes extensive use of online technology (Wattle) for accessing resources and activities. It will be in students’ best interests to ensure they have an adequate computer and fast internet connection, preferably at home, to ensure easy access to all on-line information and activities.