What are the main themes in 100 Years War historical fictions?

One main theme is military strategy. These fictions often explore how the Roman and Carthaginian armies planned their battles, like Hannibal's use of elephants.

One great historical fiction about the 100 Years War is 'The Archer's Tale' by Bernard Cornwell. It follows the adventures of an English archer. The story is filled with vivid battle scenes and details of life during that war - torn era.

Gratitude, of course. These fictions will often depict characters expressing gratitude for their harvest, for their health, or for the people around them. It was a central part of the original Thanksgiving concept. For instance, a story might tell of a poor family who is still thankful for the little they have during that time of year.

The theme of identity is often present. Royalty had to maintain a certain image, like in 'The King's Speech' where King George VI had to overcome his stammer to present himself as a worthy king. Another important theme is political intrigue. Fictions like 'I, Claudius' (though not strictly English but with similar elements) show how plots and counter - plots were common in royal courts. And family dynamics is also a theme, as seen in stories about royal families where family members could be both allies and rivals.

One main theme is the disillusionment of the soldiers. They went to war with certain ideals, but the reality of the Vietnam War, with its unclear objectives and brutal conditions, often shattered those ideals.

One common theme is the trauma of war. Soldiers often return home with physical and psychological scars. For example, in 'The Yellow Birds', the main character struggles with post - traumatic stress disorder after his experiences in Iraq.

One of the best is 'All Quiet on the Western Front' by Erich Maria Remarque. It vividly depicts the horror and futility of war from the perspective of German soldiers. The descriptions of the trenches and the psychological impact on the young men are very powerful.

I think 'Slaughterhouse - Five' by Kurt Vonnegut is among the top World War 2 historical fictions. It's a semi - autobiographical account of Vonnegut's experiences as a prisoner of war. The story jumps around in time, which is a really interesting way to tell about the chaos and absurdity of war. And then there's 'Catch - 22' which, while set during World War 2, also satirizes military bureaucracy. It's full of dark humor and shows the insanity of war.

Some well - known historical war fictions include 'For Whom the Bell Tolls' by Ernest Hemingway. This novel is set during the Spanish Civil War. It tells the story of an American volunteer fighting with the anti - Fascist forces. Then there's 'The Guns of Navarone' which is about a dangerous mission during World War II. These fictions not only tell war stories but also often explore the human condition during such turbulent times.

Another theme is the impact on civilians. The War of 1812 disrupted the lives of ordinary people. In historical fiction, we often see how families were torn apart, farms were destroyed, and communities had to rebuild. This can be seen in stories set in small towns along the border areas that were affected by the fighting.