Hagiographer: meaning, definitions and examples
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hagiographer
[ hæɡiˈɒɡrəfə ]
literature study
A hagiographer is a writer who specializes in the biographies of saints and religious figures. These writings often focus on the individual's life, virtues, and miracles, portraying them in a pious and reverential manner. The role of a hagiographer has historical significance, especially in the context of Christian traditions, where such biographies served to inspire the faithful. In many cases, their works are not just historical accounts but also theological reflections that help to deepen the faith of readers.
Synonyms
life writer, religious historian, saint biographer.
Examples of usage
- The hagiographer dedicated his life to documenting the stories of early saints.
- She studied the works of various hagiographers to understand the portrayal of holiness.
- The hagiographer's narrative was full of miraculous elements that captivated the audience.
Translations
Translations of the word "hagiographer" in other languages:
🇵🇹 hagiógrafo
🇮🇳 हागियोग्राफर
🇩🇪 Hagiograph
🇮🇩 hagiografer
🇺🇦 агіограф
🇵🇱 hagiograf
🇯🇵 聖人伝記作家
🇫🇷 hagiographe
🇪🇸 hagiografo
🇹🇷 hagiograf
🇰🇷 성인 전기 작가
🇸🇦 كاتب سير القديسين
🇨🇿 hagiograf
🇸🇰 hagiograf
🇨🇳 圣徒传记作家
🇸🇮 hagiograf
🇮🇸 hagiógraf
🇰🇿 агиограф
🇬🇪 ჰაგიოგრაფი
🇦🇿 hagiograf
🇲🇽 hagiografo
Etymology
The term 'hagiographer' is derived from the Greek word 'hagios', meaning 'holy' or 'sacred', and 'grapho', which means 'to write'. This combination reflects the primary focus of hagiography, which is the writing about holy figures, particularly saints. The practice dates back to the early Christian era, when the lives of martyrs and saints were recorded to serve as a source of inspiration and moral guidance for believers. Throughout history, hagiographers have crafted narratives that meld biography with elements of folklore, emphasizing the miraculous deeds and virtues of their subjects. Over the centuries, the genre of hagiography evolved, influencing not only religious literature but also the broader aspects of culture and art, reinforcing the veneration of saints throughout Christendom.