Another theme is cultural clash. The Varangian Guards were mostly Vikings or other northern Europeans in the Byzantine Empire. So, there are often stories about how they interacted with the very different Byzantine culture. This can include differences in religion, social customs, and military tactics. For example, in some books, we see the Varangians struggling to adapt to the more formal and complex Byzantine court life while still maintaining their own identities.
One common theme is loyalty. The Varangian Guards were known for their loyalty to the Byzantine emperors. In many fictional works, this loyalty is tested through various plot devices, such as political intrigue or threats from external forces.
Battle and adventure are also common themes. Since they were a military unit, there are often exciting battle scenes in Varangian Guard historical fiction. They might be fighting against invaders of the Byzantine Empire or getting involved in internal power struggles. These battles not only show their military prowess but also their importance in the history of the Byzantine Empire.
One great example is 'The Varangian Guard' by C. J. Sansom. It vividly depicts the life and adventures of the guards in a fictional yet well - researched way.
Rescue missions are a very common theme. These stories often show the brave coast guard personnel risking their lives to save others.
Varangian fiction novels often feature strong, warrior - like protagonists. They usually have a lot of action, especially battle scenes. The settings are typically in the regions associated with the Varangians.
One common theme is space exploration. In Solar Guard 1950s science fiction, often the stories revolve around the adventures of the Solar Guard in exploring the solar system. Another theme could be the encounter with alien species. It was a time when the idea of life beyond Earth was really exciting to explore in fiction. Also, technological advancements were a big part of it. The stories might show new spaceship designs or advanced weaponry that the Solar Guard uses in their missions.
One common theme is love and relationships. In historical settings, love can be complicated by social class, family expectations, and cultural norms. Another theme is power and politics. This can involve struggles between different groups for control of a region or a nation. War is also a common theme, showing the impact on individuals and society.
Common themes in historical fiction include power struggles. This could be between different kingdoms, political parties, or social classes. For instance, in stories about the Tudor period in England, there are often power struggles within the royal family. Cultural clashes are also frequent. When different cultures meet, like during the age of exploration, it creates interesting themes in historical fiction. And then there's the theme of survival. Characters in historical fictions often have to survive in difficult historical circumstances, like a famine or a plague.
One common theme is war. Many historical fictions are set during wars, like the World War II. It shows the impact on individuals, families, and society. Another theme is social change. For example, the Industrial Revolution brought huge changes in people's lives, which historical fictions often explore. Also, love is a frequent theme. Love stories against the backdrop of historical events add a human touch to the story.
The theme of identity is important in historical fiction. Characters might struggle with their national, ethnic, or social identity in a particular historical context. Revolutions are also a theme. These events bring about significant changes and upheavals, and historical fictions can explore the causes and consequences. Additionally, class struggle, such as the conflict between the rich and the poor in historical societies, is a recurring theme.
One common theme is grief. Characters in these fictions often deal with the loss of loved ones in the attacks, like in 'Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close'.
Power struggles are common. In historical fiction, we often see characters vying for power, whether it's political power like in 'A Game of Thrones' (although it's a fictionalized version of a historical - like setting). Cultural clashes are another theme. When different cultures meet, as in books about the colonization era, it creates interesting storylines. And of course, the theme of survival. Characters in historical fictions have to survive in difficult times, like the early settlers in America as portrayed in some books.