Well, first of all, a great historical Roman fiction usually has a strong sense of time and place. It makes you feel like you're in ancient Rome, with descriptions of the city, its buildings, and the way people dress. For instance, in 'The Silver Pigs', the setting of Rome is so vividly described. Second, there's the element of conflict. It could be internal conflict within a character, like a Roman soldier torn between his loyalty to the empire and his own moral beliefs, or external conflict such as wars and battles. And third, the language used often has a touch of the grandeur associated with Rome. The dialogue and narration may use words and phrases that give an air of Roman sophistication.
One key characteristic is the portrayal of Roman culture. This includes their religious beliefs, with the worship of multiple gods and the influence of new religions like Christianity. The characters in these novels often reflect the values of the time, such as honor and loyalty. Moreover, the military aspects are frequently explored, as Rome had a large and powerful military. We can see battles, military strategies, and the life of soldiers in these stories. For instance, in 'The Eagle of the Ninth', the main character's military journey is central to the plot.
One characteristic is detailed historical settings. They often describe the architecture, daily life, and social hierarchies in Rome. For example, the way they depict the Roman Forum or the baths.
One great historical Roman fiction is 'I, Claudius' by Robert Graves. It offers a vivid look into the Roman imperial family, filled with political intrigue, power struggles, and complex characters. Another is 'The Eagle of the Ninth' by Rosemary Sutcliff. It follows a Roman soldier's journey in Britain, showing Roman military life and the interaction with the local tribes. Also, 'Pompeii' by Robert Harris is a great read. It takes place around the time of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and gives a sense of life in the Roman city before the disaster.
They usually have well - developed characters. Take 'I, Claudius' again. The characters are complex, with their own motives and flaws, which is very true to real - life people in Roman history. Also, a good plot that can involve political intrigue, like power struggles between different Roman factions or families.
Roman fiction can be quite diverse. Some works focus on the military aspects of Rome, such as the great battles and the strategies used. Others might center around the daily lives of the Romans, like their family structures, religious ceremonies, and the role of slaves in their society. It's a genre that gives us a peek into the rich and complex world of ancient Rome.
Accuracy in historical details. Great historical fiction gets the facts right, like the time period's clothing, social norms, and major events. For example, in 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel, it vividly portrays the Tudor court with accurate historical details.
Roman historical romance novels typically feature a blend of historical accuracy and fictional love stories. The historical aspect includes elements like the Roman military campaigns, gladiator battles, and the influence of the gods in Roman society. In terms of the romance, it often involves forbidden love or love that defies social norms. The characters are usually well - developed, with their own motives and desires, which are shaped by the Roman culture. For example, a female character may have to fight for her right to love in a male - dominated society.
The Legio III Gallica is another interesting one. In fictional works, they can be shown as being part of important military campaigns in the Roman east. They had a long history and were involved in many battles, which makes them a great subject for historical fiction writers to explore their stories, such as their role in the Roman expansion in the eastern regions.
The use of Irish language and dialects is also a feature. It adds authenticity to the story. Writers will sprinkle in Gaelic phrases or use the unique cadence of an Irish accent in the dialogue, which helps transport the reader to the time and place of the story and gives a deeper understanding of the Irish culture within the historical context.
Great Christian historical fiction typically weaves in elements of the Bible. It might take a story from the Bible and expand on it or show how it could have influenced the lives of ordinary people at that time. For instance, a story might be set during the time of the prophets in the Old Testament and show how the prophecies affected the community. The language used is often evocative and can transport the reader to the historical period. It can use archaic words or phrases that were common in the time the story is set, adding to the authenticity. And finally, it often explores themes of love, forgiveness, and sacrifice, which are central to the Christian faith.