One common theme is secrecy. Given the social norms of the Mughal era, LGBT characters often had to keep their identities and relationships hidden. Another theme is the struggle for acceptance, not just from society but also within themselves as they were likely influenced by the religious and cultural values of the time.
There are also some independent works by emerging authors that explore LGBT characters in the Mughal era. These often rely on extensive research of Mughal culture and history. For instance, some short stories can be found in anthologies that are dedicated to re - imagining historical periods from a more inclusive perspective. They might not be as well - known as mainstream historical fictions, but they offer unique insights into the possible experiences of LGBT individuals during the Mughal period.
Religious and cultural diversity is another theme. The Mughal Empire was a melting pot of different religions and cultures. In mughal historical fiction, we can see how different faiths coexisted, sometimes in harmony and sometimes in conflict, which was an important part of the Mughal historical landscape.
One characteristic is that it often reflects the social attitudes of the time towards LGBT people. For example, in many historical LGBT fictions set in the past century, there is a sense of secrecy and fear due to the lack of acceptance. Another is that they can be used to show the evolution of LGBT rights. Historical LGBT fictions might depict the early struggles and how they have changed over time. They also tend to have complex characters who are trying to navigate their identities within the constraints of historical norms.
Another interesting one is 'Shadow Princess' also by Indu Sundaresan. It delves deeper into the relationships and power struggles within the Mughal court, painting a detailed picture of the period through fictionalized accounts of real - life events and people.
Well, social isolation can be a theme. Historically, LGBT people were often ostracized from mainstream society. This is shown in many works where characters feel alone or are pushed to the margins. Resistance is another theme. Some stories depict how LGBT individuals fought against the norms and laws of their time, whether it was through small acts of defiance or larger movements for acceptance.
In some Turkish historical fiction, LGBT representation can be quite complex. Some works may touch on the existence of same - sex relationships in a veiled or coded manner. This is because historically, Turkish society has had its own set of cultural and social norms. For example, in Ottoman history, there were certain spaces where non - heteronormative relationships might have existed, but they were not openly discussed in the same way as today. However, modern Turkish historical fiction writers are starting to explore these themes more openly, often using historical settings to comment on contemporary issues of LGBT rights and acceptance.
Well, 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker can be considered in this category. It's set in the rural South of the United States in the early 20th century and depicts the relationship between two women in a very powerful way. It also touches on race and gender issues along with LGBT themes. 'Brokeback Mountain' which was later made into a movie, was originally a short story by Annie Proulx. Set in the American West in the 1960s - 1980s, it tells the tragic love story between two cowboys. Another good one is 'Tipping the Velvet' by Sarah Waters which is set in the Victorian era and follows the adventures of a young woman who discovers her love for other women.
Another aspect is the use of historical settings to highlight the struggles and triumphs of the LGBT community. For example, during different political regimes in Russia, the experiences of LGBT individuals would have been very different. These fictions can show how they coped or fought for their rights in those historical times. It's often about how they interacted with the larger historical forces at play, like wars, revolutions, and social changes.
One common theme is the struggle for acceptance. In many historical settings, being LGBT was not tolerated, so characters often face discrimination. Another theme is self - discovery. Young characters are trying to figure out their identity in a world that may not understand or support them.