The difference lies in the complexity and scale. Sprawling historical fiction is like a tapestry that encompasses a vast historical landscape. It can include elements such as different historical periods overlapping within the story. For instance, in 'The Pillars of the Earth', we see the building of a cathedral which is a long - term project that spans different political regimes and social changes in 12th - century England. Other types of historical novels may be more about a particular moment in time or a specific historical figure, rather than the all - encompassing view that sprawling historical fiction offers.
Sprawling historical fiction is distinct in that it weaves together numerous storylines. In contrast to more focused historical novels, it can jump between different locations and social classes. Take 'Gone with the Wind'. It doesn't just tell the story of Scarlett O'Hara's love life. It also shows plantation life, the politics of the Confederacy, the impact of the Civil War on slaves and slave owners, and the rebuilding of the South. Other historical novels might be more linear and centered on one main plotline related to a specific historical aspect.
It could also be more influenced by current social and political climates. Authors in 2024 might use historical settings to comment on contemporary issues. For instance, if there are issues of inequality in 2024, a historical fiction set in a similar unequal era in the past could be written to draw parallels. This gives a different flavor compared to historical fiction written in other years which might not have that same connection to the present moment.
Well, steamy historical fiction usually has a significant amount of time dedicated to the relationships between characters, especially the romantic and passionate ones. In contrast, regular historical fiction may be more about wars, power struggles, or cultural changes. For example, in a non - steamy historical fiction about the American Revolution, the focus would be on the battles and the fight for independence. But in a steamy historical fiction set during that time, there could be a love story between a colonist and a British soldier, with a lot of emotional and physical tension.
MFA historical fiction often has a more refined writing style. MFA programs tend to focus on craft, so MFA - written historical fiction may have more nuanced language and better - developed characters. For example, the pacing might be more carefully controlled compared to some non - MFA historical fiction.
Escapist historical fiction often focuses more on the elements that can take the reader away from their present reality. For example, it may have more fantastical elements like time - travel in 'Outlander' compared to a more strictly historical account. It might also emphasize the romantic or adventure aspects more strongly. Other historical fiction might be more concerned with strict historical accuracy and a more in - depth analysis of historical events and figures.
BuzzFeed historical fictions often have a more modern and accessible writing style. They might use contemporary language to make the stories easier to understand for a wide range of readers. For example, they may use modern idioms within the historical context.
Well, in epistolary historical fiction, the story is often told through the eyes of multiple correspondents. Take 'Dracula' for instance. We get different views from different characters' letters and diary entries. In other historical fiction, there may be a single overarching narrator. Also, the use of letters and documents in epistolary works can make the historical setting seem more real and immediate. It's like you're reading actual historical records. And the pacing can be different too. Since it's based on correspondence, there can be gaps and bursts in the story flow that are unique to this form.
Regular historical fiction often focuses on the main events and well - known figures. 'The other side historical fiction' might look at the same period but from the view of the marginalized or the ordinary people. For example, regular historical fiction about the American Revolution might center on the Founding Fathers, while 'the other side' could be about a common farmer caught in the crossfire.
Well, in a regular historical fiction, the focus might be more on a particular event or a small group of people in a static location. But in voyager novel historical fictions, the characters are like voyagers. For example, in a story about a medieval village, it's different from a story where a character is traveling across different kingdoms in the same era. The voyager - type story will have more elements of discovery, of facing the unknown, and often a broader range of cultural encounters. They might deal with different languages, customs, and terrains as they move along their journey, which adds a unique flavor compared to more location - specific historical fictions.
TV Tropes historical fiction often has to be more concise and visually engaging compared to written historical fiction. Since it's a visual medium, it relies on things like set design and costume to quickly convey the historical period. For example, a movie set in ancient Rome will use grand architecture and togas to set the scene immediately.
It differs in several ways. Firstly, the research required. Historical novels need in - depth research on the era, its language, customs, etc. Other novels may not need such extensive historical research. Secondly, the purpose. A historical novel often aims to educate about a particular time in history as well as entertain, whereas a science - fiction novel is more about exploring future or alternate realities. Also, the setting in a historical novel is a real - world past setting, which is not the case for many other novel genres.