history and biography; historical material
Refers to historical writings that combine factual history with biographical accounts, or to historical records in general. Often used in academic or literary contexts.
He is well-versed in Chinese historical biographies.
この図書館には多くの史伝が所蔵されている。
This library holds many historical records.
Compound of 史 (history) and 伝 (tradition, biography). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the combination naturally yields the meaning 'historical biography' or 'historical records'.