A biography offers the reader a particular look at a person's life. Sometimes it starts from a favorable point of view, sometimes it can be more critical. In some cases it highlights the existential path through the political perspective, in others it tells it through the historical context and the filter of particular circumstances. Whichever way it is drawn, it should contain a conclusion that gives the reader a sense of closure to the whole story. By describing the protagonist's political and cultural impact and the legacy he left behind, entering the details of his personal life and supporting your main thesis, you will be able to end a biography with a valid conclusion.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Remind the Reader of the Importance of the Protagonist
Step 1. Summarize the most memorable actions
The conclusion of a biography should remind the reader of the accomplishments or work of the protagonist. Briefly describe his greatest achievements so that the reader can remember why it is useful to know about his life.
For example, to conclude a biography of Jane Austen, you should report that she has written six novels, some of which are considered to be among the most memorable and influential works in English literature
Step 2. Describe the impact of the protagonist
It is important to expose the influence he has had during his life. If, thanks to his intervention, an important political reform has taken place, he reports the laws, changes or conflicts that have occurred. If it has given impetus to significant social changes, it tells to what extent its contribution has changed the cultural horizon.
A biography of Martin Luther, the 16th-century monk at the head of the Protestant Reformation, should recall the impact of his actions on religious development across Europe. Not only did it challenge the ruling Catholic Church, but it also made the Bible more accessible to all, not just the clergy. A conclusion should emphasize the actions that conditioned religious beliefs during the Renaissance
Step 3. Mention the legacy left by the protagonist
If the character's work, performance, or opinions had a far-reaching influence on subsequent generations, report it in the conclusion. Perhaps his intervention contributed to the promulgation of laws still in force today or perhaps his opinions made it possible to eradicate the injustice of certain social rules.
- For example, a biography of Susan B. Anthony might recall that her works and beliefs have inspired generations of women and the continuing struggle for gender equality.
- To end a biography of Albert Einstein, you could say that his theories and publications have conditioned the development of quantum theory and influenced generations of scientists intent on unifying his teachings about the universe.
- A biography of writer Upton Sinclair may indicate that his novel "The Jungle" impacted the American public health system and helped create laws to regulate the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Part 2 of 3: Entering Private Life Details
Step 1. Humanize the protagonist
Sometimes, the reader runs the risk of distancing himself from the protagonist if he has the impression that he is an important character or an influential person with whom he does not have many points in common. Use the conclusion to briefly review the personal details, events, or anecdotes mentioned throughout the bio. By reporting these aspects in the final part of the biography, you will make the protagonist more accessible to the eyes of the reader.
Mention the visits she made to her grandmother or reiterate that her favorite place was a quiet mountain chalet
Step 2. Mention the obstacles he faced
Faced with a biography, the reader can forget that each person has his own personal difficulties and struggles to overcome. If the protagonist has been heavily influenced by a personal tragedy or has been fired multiple times during his life, consider mentioning these episodes in the conclusion.
Nelson Mandela was an influential, prominent and successful figure in South African political history and a South African activist. Despite numerous awards and honors, he admitted that he had not been a brilliant student when he was in law school. By reporting this anecdote, you make it clear to the reader that Mandela had to work hard during his life
Step 3. Describe the hobbies or passions
If the protagonist's hobbies, passions, or interests played an important role in his life, include them in the conclusion. Perhaps some books have encouraged him to write his most famous novel or perhaps his love for animals has prompted him to commit himself to the defense of endangered species. He intertwines his personal interests within the conclusion by recognizing to what extent they have affected his decisions in his work or personal life.
Part 3 of 3: Mix Everything
Step 1. Summarize the key points
In all likelihood it was the thesis, or the main theme, that guided you in organizing your biography. Summarize the key points within the conclusion for the reader to remember. By retracing your reasoning, you will be able to validate your position and help the reader understand the purpose of your work.
Briefly remember the key points that help build your thesis. If the protagonist of the biography had to move to various places when he was a child, it is possible that his most famous novels were influenced by these events. In this case, to corroborate your thesis, you can point out that the main characters of his works are always traveling
Step 2. Refrain from introducing new ideas or information
Don't use the conclusion to add details, facts, or stories that you didn't include in the bio. By inserting new information in the final part, you risk confusing the reader or leaving him with unanswered question marks. So, you should rework the topics already covered.
Step 3. Cite short examples to support your thesis
In the conclusion you should reinforce and support the main concept of the biography. Briefly remind the reader of all the testimonials and documentation you have provided. Use the themes, patterns or thoughts previously discussed to support your thesis.
- If you think that the actions of the protagonist in the second part of his life are the result of the experiences lived in the war, summarize the decisions that, in your opinion, were more incisive. If he participated in anti-war protests, founded an anti-world conflict organization, and was committed to human rights, point out that his entire work has revolved around promoting peace.
- It reminds the reader of the uniqueness or peculiarities of the protagonist and which events in his life highlight his qualities.
Step 4. Quote the protagonist's text words to reinforce your core thinking
Extract quotes from letters, interviews, or essays to support the thesis or belief that his action was significant. Choose a phrase that fits, but don't eradicate it from context just to corroborate your thesis.
Step 5. Avoid using phrases
Do not write "in summary", "for that reason" and "finally". These expressions can create an abrupt and hasty conclusion. Try to say goodbye to the reader with an after all natural epilogue.
Instead of saying "in conclusion," try to close with an insightful remark. He ends by saying: "Thanks to the magic and fame of her novels, it is fair to believe that J. K. Rowling will continue to influence the young readers of future generations."
Step 6. Close elegantly
Offer the reader a pleasant and satisfying conclusion that gives a sense of completeness. Rework the initial steps so that he can see them in light of the information acquired later. He reports an important event, an authoritative work or a great success that summarizes the story of his life.
