What are the different conventions of historical fiction?

One key convention is accurate historical setting. This means getting the time period's details right, like the architecture, clothing, and social norms. For example, in a historical fiction set in Victorian England, the author would depict the strict class system and the elaborate dress of the upper class. Another convention is using real historical events as a backdrop or even incorporating them into the plot. It gives the story authenticity. Also, characters often have to fit within the historical context, their beliefs and behaviors shaped by the era they live in.

Historical fiction usually combines historical facts with creative storytelling. It might focus on lesser-known aspects of a period or offer a fresh perspective on well-known events. Plus, it often explores themes relevant to both the past and present.

Well, when historical fiction adheres to the convention of accurate historical events, it educates the reader about the past while entertaining them. The readers can learn about different cultures and time periods. The way characters are developed according to the historical context also affects the experience. If characters act in a way that is true to the era, it makes the story more believable and engaging. And the narrative style, like a journal - like first - person account, can make the reader feel closer to the story.

One key convention is the use of historical settings. This means depicting a time period accurately, including details like the architecture, clothing, and social norms. For example, in a historical fiction set in Victorian England, the author would describe the strict class system and the elaborate dresses of the women. Another convention is the inclusion of real historical events or figures. These can be major events like wars or the actions of well - known historical people, which are often intertwined with the fictional characters' stories. The third convention is the use of language appropriate for the time period. This might involve using archaic words or expressions that were common during that era to create an authentic atmosphere.

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.

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 of the main conventions is the creation of fictional characters. These characters drive the story forward. Another is the use of a plot structure, often with a beginning, middle, and end. Setting is also a key convention, as it provides the backdrop for the story.