In historical fiction, setting is the most important literary element. Because the author is writing about a particular time in history, the information about the time period must be accurate, authentic, or both. To create accurate and authentic settings in their books, authors must research the time period thoroughly. They must know how people lived, what they ate, what kinds of homes they had, and what artifacts were a common part of their lives. Historical fiction books—whether they are picture books, transitional books, or novels—may have characters who are either imaginary or who actually lived during the time period. Settings also may be real or imaginary. The plot events may be documented historical events or they may be fictional. If they are fictional, it means that the author created the events for the telling of the story. The fictional characters, settings, and plot events must be portrayed authentically as if they actually could have happened.
Is Historical Fiction a made up story?
Historical fiction is a made up story created by the author. The setting and many details in the story are based on real historical events.
Why do authors write historical fiction?
Authors usually write historical fiction to entertain their readers. They also want to share some information about a time period that is interesting to them.
What are the features of historical fiction?
- The setting is a real location with a set time period.
- The characters are real people that could be real or made up.
- The plot is a mixture of made up events and events that really happened.