What are the Different Attitudes an Author in Historical Fiction Can Have?

There is also an attitude of using sex symbolically. In some Chinese novels, sex can be a symbol of power, passion, or the breakdown of moral values. For example, in a novel about a corrupt official, his excessive sexual indulgence might be used to represent his moral decay and the rot in the system he is part of.

One type is the epic historical fiction. It often covers a vast span of time and multiple significant events, like 'War and Peace' which shows the Napoleonic era in Russia. Another type is the biographical historical fiction. These are based on the lives of real historical figures, for example, 'The Agony and the Ecstasy' about Michelangelo. And then there's the alternative history type, where the author changes a key historical event and imagines how the world would be different. For instance, what if the South had won the American Civil War in some fictional stories.

One style is the epic style. It often involves large - scale historical events, like wars and the rise and fall of empires. For example, 'War and Peace' by Tolstoy. Another style is the biographical style which focuses on the life of a particular historical figure. A third style could be the social - historical style which delves into the social structures and norms of a certain historical period.

One convention is the accurate portrayal of historical events. This means getting the facts right about battles, political events, and social conditions of the time. Another is the use of period - appropriate language. It helps to create an immersive experience for the reader. Also, the recreation of historical settings, like the architecture and clothing, is a key convention.

There are several types. Period - piece historical fiction, which recreates a specific historical period in great detail, like a story set in the Victorian era. There's also historical mystery, where a mystery is solved within a historical context. For instance, Ellis Peters' 'Cadfael' series set in medieval England. And cultural historical fiction, which explores the culture and traditions of a particular historical time and place, for example, books about the Mayan civilization.

There are several types like alternate history, where events unfold differently than in our actual past. Another is biographical historical fiction, focusing on the lives of real historical figures. And there's also period historical fiction, set in a specific era.

One key factor is accurate research. A great historical fiction author digs deep into the time period they are writing about. For example, if they are writing about the Roman Empire, they need to know about the politics, the daily life, the architecture, etc. Another is the ability to create engaging characters. These characters should feel real and be relatable even though they are living in a different time. For instance, in Hilary Mantel's works, her characters like Thomas Cromwell are complex and well - developed.

An author can be considered among the best in historical fiction if they can transport the reader to another time. Margaret Atwood does this well in 'Alias Grace'. She weaves a story that makes you feel like you're in 19th - century Canada. Another factor is the accuracy of historical details while still making the story interesting. Leo Tolstoy in 'War and Peace' manages to include a vast amount of historical information without it becoming a dry history lesson.

Medieval historical fiction often has a focus on chivalry and courtly love. Knights are usually depicted as noble warriors. Ancient historical fiction, on the other hand, may have a strong emphasis on mythology and the grandeur of ancient civilizations. In colonial historical fiction, the clash of cultures and the exploitation of native lands are common themes. For example, the power dynamics between the colonizers and the colonized are explored.