hagiography Definition
the writing and critical study of the lives of the saints.
Using hagiography: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "hagiography" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The book is a hagiography of Saint Francis of Assisi.
Example
The author's research focuses on medieval hagiography.
Example
The professor assigned us to read a chapter on hagiography for our religious studies class.
hagiography Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for hagiography
- martyrology
- hagiology
- saints' lives
Phrases with hagiography
the portrayal of political figures in an idealized or uncritical manner, often with the aim of promoting a particular agenda or ideology
Example
The documentary was criticized for being more of a political hagiography than an objective analysis of the politician's career.
the tendency to present scientific discoveries as heroic achievements of individual scientists rather than as the result of collective efforts and collaboration
Example
The book offers a critique of the hagiography of science that often overlooks the contributions of women and minorities.
the portrayal of writers or literary figures in an idealized or uncritical manner, often with the aim of promoting their works or reputation
Example
The biographer's literary hagiography of the poet ignored his personal flaws and shortcomings.
Origins of hagiography
from Greek 'hagios', meaning 'holy' + '-graphy', meaning 'writing'
Summary: hagiography in Brief
The term 'hagiography' [hæɡiˈɑːɡrəfi] refers to the writing and critical study of the lives of the saints. It has expanded to include the portrayal of political figures, scientists, and literary figures in an idealized or uncritical manner. Examples include 'The book is a hagiography of Saint Francis of Assisi' and 'The author's research focuses on medieval hagiography.'
