Hagiographer: meaning, definitions and examples
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hagiographer
[hæɡiˈɒɡrəfə ]
Definition
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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Greek 'hagia,' meaning holy, and 'grapho,' meaning to write.
- Hagiographers not only document lives but also the miracles attributed to these figures.
- The term has been used since at least the 18th century to specifically describe those who write about saints.
Historical Significance
- Early hagiographic texts were pivotal in spreading Christianity in the European Middle Ages.
- The writings served both as religious instruction and as sources of inspiration for the faithful.
- Famous hagiographers like Saint Gregory of Tours shaped the narrative surrounding saints in their regions.
Literary Style
- Hagiographies often include miraculous events, emphasizing the virtue of the subjects.
- These texts blend biography with elements of folklore and piety, making them both narrative and devotional.
- The style tends to be reverent, often invoking the reader’s emotions towards the saint.
Cultural Impact
- Hagiographies helped mold public perception of saints and martyrs, influencing societal values.
- These writings often led to the veneration of saints, impacting art, literature, and religious practices.
- Modern hagiographic texts can be found in various cultures, highlighting the universal interest in exemplary lives.
Modern Examples
- Contemporary hagiographers might write about notable figures in various fields, such as activism or humanitarian work.
- Many biographies of modern religious figures carry hagiographic qualities, portraying the subjects as moral exemplars.
- Social media has created new platforms for hagiography, allowing quick dissemination of inspirational stories.
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