How can new WW2 historical fiction help us understand the war better?

It humanizes the experience. By creating fictional characters in the context of WW1, we can see how individuals were affected. For example, in 'All Quiet on the Western Front', we feel the fear and despair of the soldiers.

WW1 historical fiction helps by putting a human face on the events. For example, in books like 'Regeneration' by Pat Barker, we see the real - life experiences of soldiers in the war. It shows their mental states, how they coped with trauma and the camaraderie among them.

WW2 fiction helps by filling in the gaps that historical records might miss. While history tells us about the big events, fiction can show how those events affected ordinary people. In 'The Nightingale', we see the struggles of two sisters in occupied France, their acts of resistance, and the sacrifices they made. Fiction also has the power to humanize the enemy. We can read about German soldiers as more than just the 'bad guys' in some WW2 fiction, understanding that they were also individuals with their own stories, families, and sometimes, moral conflicts.

Historical fiction WW2 novels can also fill in the gaps left by official history. They might explore the experiences of marginalized groups. For instance, novels can focus on the experiences of women during the war, like how they entered the workforce or how they dealt with the absence of men. By presenting these stories, we get a more complete and nuanced understanding of the entire WW2 era.

WW2 historical novels can give us a more personal view. They often tell stories of individual characters. For example, a novel about a soldier on the front line can show us the fear, camaraderie, and hardships they faced. This is different from just reading historical facts. It makes the era more real.

These fictional journals can provide different perspectives. Instead of just the military or political view, we can see how civilians, women, and children experienced the war. For instance, in a fictional journal about a family in a bombed - out city, we get a sense of the daily fear and struggle. They can also use creative license to explore 'what - if' scenarios, which can then make us better understand the real choices made during the war. Moreover, fictional stories often stay with us longer, making the lessons of WW2 more memorable.

Well, these fictional stories bring the war to life. They let us see the different sides of the conflict. In works like 'All the Light We Cannot See', we get to understand the German side as well as the Allied side. We can feel the fear, the hope, the desperation of the people involved. It also helps us to remember the war in a more personal way, not just as a series of battles and dates, but as something that had a huge impact on countless individuals' lives.

Vietnam War historical fiction often shows different perspectives. Like in 'Dispatches', it shows the view of a journalist. This gives a broader understanding of not just the fighting but also the social and political context around the war. It can show the impact on civilians, the confusion among the military ranks, and the overall chaos that was the Vietnam War. It can also explore the long - term effects on the veterans, which is something that historical accounts might not fully capture.

It humanizes the war. By creating fictional characters and their stories, we can better relate to the experiences of those who were there. For example, in a historical fiction novel, we might follow a young soldier's journey, his fears, hopes, and dreams, which gives a more personal view than just looking at historical facts.

Historical fiction simplifies the complex events. For example, in books about the War of the Roses, it can break down the numerous battles and political maneuvers into an understandable story.