The book depicts the historical setting in a very immersive way. It gives a sense of the political turmoil during Lincoln's time. We can see how the war affected the daily lives of people. It also shows the cultural and religious beliefs of the period. For instance, the way people thought about death and the afterlife. And it does this by weaving in historical facts with the fictional elements of the bardo and the characters' stories. This makes the historical setting come alive and gives readers a deeper understanding of what it was like to live during that time.
Well, the themes include the exploration of the human condition. In 'Lincoln in the Bardo', we see characters in a sort of limbo, and this reflects on how humans face uncertainty and change. The historical aspect of it also brings out themes of war and its impact on society. And of course, the relationship between the living and the dead is a significant theme, as Lincoln is mourning his son while the other characters in the bardo are in their own state of waiting and reflection.
It contributes by its innovative storytelling. It breaks away from traditional linear narratives.
Historical fiction about the civil war typically combines real events and characters with fictional elements to give a rich and immersive account. It can show the heroism, tragedy, and complexity of that period, making it come alive for readers.
It shows the brutality of the period. People were uprooted from their homes and sent to labor camps without proper cause. It depicts the cold and inhumane treatment they received, like being made to work in harsh conditions with little food or shelter.
In 'Between Shades of Gray', the historical events are shown in a very realistic way. The author describes the living conditions, the lack of food, and the fear that the people had during that time. By following the journey of the characters, we get a sense of how the historical events unfolded and affected the common people.
It depicts historical events through detailed descriptions. For example, if there are battles in the story, it will describe how the armies are arranged, what weapons are used, etc. These details are based on historical facts.
It depicts historical events through the eyes of the characters. For example, the main character's experiences are shaped by the events happening around him, like the war. This makes the historical events more relatable.
It shows the fashion of the time. The simple and modest clothing styles that the characters wear give an idea of the era's aesthetic. Also, the architecture of Green Gables, the house, is a representation of the typical rural buildings of that period.
It often delves into the characters' emotions. For instance, there could be a character who was a seamstress, full of dreams for her future, suddenly faced with the terrifying reality of the fire. The fear, the desperation, and the unfairness of their situation can be deeply explored in historical fiction, making the event more relatable to the readers.
Well, in 'Remains of the Day as a Historical Novel', the social hierarchy is depicted in a very nuanced way. The main character, as a butler, is at the service of the upper class. His daily routines, from serving at grand dinners to managing the household, are all shaped by the hierarchy. For example, he has to be extremely deferential to the aristocratic family he serves. His interactions with the servants of lower ranks also show the different levels within the domestic staff, which is a microcosm of the larger social hierarchy outside the household.