A frequent theme in mayan historical fiction is the Mayan calendar and its significance. Writers often use it to build a sense of mystery and prophecy. Also, the relationship between the Mayans and their environment is a common theme. The way they interacted with the jungle, used its resources, and their agricultural practices are often depicted in these fictions.
Mayan historical fiction often focuses on the downfall of the Mayan civilization. It might explore reasons such as environmental changes, warfare, or internal political unrest. These stories try to recreate the last days of the great Mayan cities, with their temples and pyramids, and the people who once inhabited them. The characters in the fictions may be struggling to survive or trying to find solutions to the problems that led to the civilization's decline.
One common theme is the exploration of Mayan mythology. For example, stories often revolve around their gods like Kukulkan. Another theme is the Mayan social hierarchy, showing how the different classes lived.
One common theme could be the exploration of ancient Mayan knowledge in a futuristic or science - fictional context. For example, the use of Mayan astronomy knowledge for interstellar travel in the stories.
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'.
Mayan historical novels typically have a strong sense of time and place. They are set in specific periods of Mayan history, whether it's the height of their power or during the decline. These novels also tend to incorporate Mayan art forms into the narrative. For example, descriptions of Mayan pottery, sculptures, and hieroglyphs are often used to enhance the cultural richness of the story. The characters in Mayan historical novels are usually influenced by Mayan values such as honor, family loyalty, and respect for the ancestors. This is reflected in their actions and decisions throughout the story. And finally, many of these novels will explore the impact of natural disasters on the Mayan civilization, as these events were significant factors in their history.
The theme of adventure also runs strong. Percy, as a Mayan demigod, goes on quests. These could be to retrieve powerful Mayan artifacts or to stop an evil force that is threatening the Mayan demigod realm. This is similar to his Greek demigod adventures but with a Mayan twist.
Another theme might be the mystery of the Mayan ruins. These ancient places are full of secrets. In the scary stories, people might get lost in the ruins and encounter strange apparitions or forces that they can't explain. It could be the spirits of the Mayan ancestors who are not happy with the modern intrusion into their sacred places. Also, the idea of hidden chambers with unknown and dangerous things inside can be a part of these stories.
Power struggles are common. In historical fiction, we often see characters vying for power, whether it's political power like in 'A Game of Thrones' (although it's a fictionalized version of a historical - like setting). Cultural clashes are another theme. When different cultures meet, as in books about the colonization era, it creates interesting storylines. And of course, the theme of survival. Characters in historical fictions have to survive in difficult times, like the early settlers in America as portrayed in some books.