One common way is through the lens of persecution. Fiction frequently depicts the witch hunts in New England, where innocent people were accused of witchcraft. This shows the unjust nature of the trials and how fear can spread through a community, like in the historical accounts of the Salem witch trials that are fictionalized in many works.
It is often portrayed as a source of mystery. Novels and stories set in New England might show witchcraft as something that lurks in the shadows, with witches having the ability to cast spells and influence events in ways that are not easily understood by ordinary people.
Some fiction presents New England witchcraft as a form of female empowerment. In a society where women had limited rights, the idea of witches with their own power, knowledge, and independence can be seen as a subversion of the patriarchal order. Witches in these stories may use their powers to fight against oppression or to assert their own identities.
New England witchcraft in fiction often serves as a powerful symbol. It can represent the fear of the unknown and the repressive nature of Puritan society. For example, in 'The Crucible', Arthur Miller uses the Salem witch trials as a backdrop to explore themes like mass hysteria and false accusations.
King John is often seen as a tyrant in historical fiction. In reality, while he had his issues, the situation was more nuanced. The signing of the Magna Carta was a complex event, but fiction sometimes simplifies it to make him look like a one - dimensional bad guy. Edward II, in historical works, is sometimes made out to be a rather weak king due to his relationship with Gaveston, while in actual history, his reign had other aspects as well.
One characteristic is the strong sense of place. New England settings, like its small towns, forests and seacoasts, are often vividly described. For example, in 'The Scarlet Letter', the Puritan town is a crucial part of the story. Another is the moral and ethical exploration. Given the Puritan heritage in New England, many works deal with questions of right and wrong, sin and virtue.
New England Science Fiction can be a genre that combines the traditional elements of science fiction like futuristic technology, alien encounters, time travel etc. with the local flavor of New England. For example, a story might be set in a future Boston where there are flying cars but also still retains the charm of the old brick buildings and cobblestone streets. It could also be about scientific research being carried out in universities in New England which leads to some extraordinary science - fiction - like discoveries.
It's probably quite competitive. Many MFA programs attract a large number of applicants, and New England College's MFA Fiction is likely no exception.
One characteristic is its focus on regional settings. New England settings are often vividly described, from the small towns to the coastal areas. This gives a sense of place.
Well, one characteristic is the often gloomy and atmospheric setting. New England's old towns, with their creaky houses and fog - covered streets, create a perfect backdrop for mystery. The characters in this type of detective fiction are usually complex. You've got the shrewd detective who has to deal with local secrets and the quirks of the small - town folks. Also, there's a strong sense of history that often plays into the plot. Old family feuds, buried secrets from colonial times, things like that can be central to the mystery.
One characteristic is the vivid portrayal of the region's unique landscapes, like the rocky coasts and dense forests. It often features the Puritan heritage, with stories about their strict beliefs and moral codes. Also, the social hierarchies and class struggles within New England communities are common themes.
Early New England fiction often had a didactic nature. It aimed to educate the readers, especially the younger generations, about the proper way of life according to the Puritan beliefs. The characters were typically modeled after the types of people found in the New England colonies, like the stern Puritan fathers, the pious women, and the wayward sinners who needed to be redeemed. The language used was also quite formal and influenced by the religious and literary traditions of the time.
Often, it's portrayed as a place of great cultural exchange. With the French and Spanish colonial past, there are stories of grand balls and elegant lifestyles in the mansions. At the same time, there were the hardships of the working class, like fishermen and dockworkers. Fiction shows this contrast.