Gender roles were a significant theme. Women had limited rights in the 1800s, and many historical fictions explored their struggles. In 'Wuthering Heights', the female characters are often at the mercy of the male - dominated society. Another common theme was imperialism. Some works, especially those set in the context of colonial powers, like in some British and French novels, explored how the imperialist expansion was shaping the world and the moral implications of it.
One common theme is social class. Novels often showed the differences between the upper, middle, and lower classes. For example, in 'Pride and Prejudice', the Bennets' social standing affects their daughters' marriage prospects. Another theme is love and marriage. Courtship and marriage were important aspects of life then. 'Jane Eyre' is about a woman's search for love and a proper marriage within the constraints of 1800s society.
One common theme is the changing social norms. After World War I, there was a shift in how people behaved and interacted. For example, in 'The Great Gatsby', we see the new - found wealth and the wild parties that were part of the changing social scene. Another theme is disillusionment. The war had left many people disillusioned, as shown in 'All Quiet on the Western Front'.
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'.
Since I'm not familiar with Renee Smith's work precisely, it's difficult to say. But common themes in historical fiction often include love during difficult times, social change, and the impact of historical events on individuals.
One common theme is the connection to the sea. Since Martha's Vineyard is an island, the sea plays a huge role in the lives of the characters in historical fiction. Another theme is family heritage. Many stories explore how families have passed down traditions and values over generations on the island.
One common theme is perseverance. The women in these stories face countless obstacles, from social stigma to legal barriers, but they keep fighting for their right to vote. For example, in many stories, they endure ridicule from society but still hold rallies and protests.
One common theme is identity. Caribbean women often have to navigate multiple identities, such as being Caribbean, female, and sometimes of mixed race. For example, in many stories, characters struggle with their African and European heritages. Another theme is colonialism. The impact of colonial rule on the lives of Caribbean women is often explored, like in 'Wide Sargasso Sea' where the main character is affected by the power structures of colonial Jamaica.