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While the usual generic definition – “fiction set in the past” — is true for the most part, this seemingly simple definition brings up a number of questions. For instance, how far back does a novel have to be set to make it “historical”? A hundred years? Fifty years? Five years?
Mar 19, 2018 · Does twisting or changing history to suit a story make for bad historical fiction? How should authors approach accuracy in historical fiction?
- Kristen Mcquinn
- Establish your own set of rules for when to bend history for the sake of the story—and stick to them. There are as many opinions on how accurate historical fiction should be as there are historical fiction authors, and they vary widely between those who consider accuracy an optional bonus and those who can be, well, a little bit pedantic.
- Do plenty of research—but know what to include and what not to include in your novel. Research is one of the very first steps on your journey to becoming a historical fiction author.
- Include characters who break the conventions and norms of their period—but don’t forget to include context. History is replete with exceptions—people who ignored or rejected social conventions, overcame entrenched political and economic barriers, or challenged the prevailing wisdom of their time.
- Don’t write like you’re in the 14th century. One of the ironies of writing historical fiction is that, in many cases, your dialogue should actually not be historically accurate.
Jan 15, 2024 · By Jason Hamilton. 0. Last updated on January 15th, 2024. As someone who has spent a lot of time researching myths and ancient history for my historical fantasy novels (yes, I know they’re not the same thing), I feel I have a unique kinship to historical fiction. But it can also be challenging.
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Jun 23, 2022 · Historical fiction gives you the freedom to create new people, settings, and even problems in an event or time period from the past. In a study on ‘Historical Fiction and Hilary Mantel’ from Andhra University, researchers emphasize that writers must understand the psychology, culture, and language of the people during that period to deliver ...
Sep 7, 2013 · Sep 7, 2013. There’s a funny sort of tension that occurs when writing historical fiction: Is it possible to achieve total historical accuracy while still telling a great story? Can’t one do both? Well, as much as I hate to admit it, I’m not so sure. ( From the Practical to the Mystic: 7 Tips for Writing Historical Fiction) Full disclosure.
Jan 2, 2024 · Sarah Kim. Entertainment. Books. It's Time to Rewrite the Rules of Historical Fiction. Research has long been a backbone of the genre. But beyond the textbooks, there's a whole world of family...
