Memoirs, being a distinct literary form, require a specific approach when it comes to citing them in academic writing. In the Modern Language Association (MLA) style,how to cite a memoir mlawhich is widely used in the humanities, including literature and English courses, there are specific guidelines for citing memoirs. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to cite a memoir in MLA, covering both in-text citations and citing through the Online Writing Lab (OWL) resources.
MLA Citation for a Memoir:
When citing a memoir in MLA style, it's crucial to include essential information such as the author's name, the title of the memoir, the publisher, and the publication year. The general format is as follows:
Author Last Name, First Name.Title of Memoir.Publisher, Publication Year.
For example:
Angelou, Maya.I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.Random House, 1969.
In the case of an edited memoir, where an editor or multiple editors have compiled the author's work, the format slightly differs:
Author Last Name, First Name. *Title of Memoir.Edited by Editor's Name(s), Publisher, Publication Year.
For instance:
Wiesel, Elie.Night.* Edited by Marion Wiesel, Hill and Wang, 2006.
MLA In-Text Citation for a Memoir:
In-text citations in MLA style serve to acknowledge specific passages or quotes within your writing. For a memoir, the basic format involvesmla in text citationmentioning the author's last name and the page number from which the information is derived. Place this information in parentheses at the end of the sentence containing the citation.
For example: (Angelou 25).
If you mention the author's name in the text itself, you only need to include the page number in parentheses. For instance: According to Maya Angelou, "..." (25).
OWL Citation for a Memoir:
The Online Writing Lab (OWL) at Purdue University is an invaluable resource for understanding and correctly implementing various citation styles, includingowl citationMLA. To cite a memoir using the OWL resources, follow these steps:
1.Navigate to the OWL Purdue Writing Lab:Visit the Purdue OWL website (https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_works_cited_page_books.html).
2.Locate the Memoir Entry:Scroll down or use the search function to find the section specifically related to citing books.
3.Follow the Guidelines:The OWL provides detailed guidelines and examples for citing different types of books, including memoirs. Ensure that you follow the correct format based on whether you are citing a print or online version, and whether it's a single author or an edited collection.
Remember that the OWL is an excellent resource not only for citing memoirs but also for understanding the nuances of MLA citation style in general.
In conclusion, citing a memoir in MLA style involves meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that the author's name, title, publisher, and publication year are presented accurately. The in-text citations further allow readers to trace your sources within the text, and the OWL resources provide additional support and examples for those seeking a more in-depth understanding of the MLA citation style. Following these guidelines ensures academic integrity and precision in your scholarly work.
