Power struggles within the colony are also a theme. There were often disputes between different factions, like the fur traders, the clergy, and the colonial administrators. These power dynamics add a lot of drama and intrigue to the stories of New France in historical fiction.
Love and family are important themes as well. These elements are intertwined with the historical backdrop. Characters' relationships are shaped by the events around them, like a family trying to survive during a time of war or social upheaval in northern France. Their love for each other might be tested by the hardships of the historical situation.
One common theme is colonialism. Many works explore how the arrival of Europeans affected the indigenous Maori people, like changes in land ownership and cultural clashes. Another theme is the struggle for identity. Characters often grapple with their place in a changing society influenced by different cultures.
The theme of change over time is also prevalent. As the United States as a whole was evolving, Vermont and New Hampshire were no exception. Historical fictions often explore how the arrival of new technologies, like the railroad, or new ideas, such as different religious beliefs, changed the way of life. It could be about how a small farming town in Vermont had to adapt when a big factory was built nearby, or how the people of New Hampshire reacted to new political ideologies spreading across the nation.
The changing urban landscape is also a big theme. As New York grew rapidly during this time, historical fictions often depict the construction of new buildings, the expansion of the city, and how this affected the people. For example, in 'The Alienist', the city's layout and its different neighborhoods play an important role in the mystery.
One common theme is love and relationships. In historical settings, love can be complicated by social class, family expectations, and cultural norms. Another theme is power and politics. This can involve struggles between different groups for control of a region or a nation. War is also a common theme, showing the impact on individuals and society.
Common themes in historical fiction include power struggles. This could be between different kingdoms, political parties, or social classes. For instance, in stories about the Tudor period in England, there are often power struggles within the royal family. Cultural clashes are also frequent. When different cultures meet, like during the age of exploration, it creates interesting themes in historical fiction. And then there's the theme of survival. Characters in historical fictions often have to survive in difficult historical circumstances, like a famine or a plague.
One common theme is war. Many historical fictions are set during wars, like the World War II. It shows the impact on individuals, families, and society. Another theme is social change. For example, the Industrial Revolution brought huge changes in people's lives, which historical fictions often explore. Also, love is a frequent theme. Love stories against the backdrop of historical events add a human touch to the story.
The theme of identity is important in historical fiction. Characters might struggle with their national, ethnic, or social identity in a particular historical context. Revolutions are also a theme. These events bring about significant changes and upheavals, and historical fictions can explore the causes and consequences. Additionally, class struggle, such as the conflict between the rich and the poor in historical societies, is a recurring theme.
One common theme is grief. Characters in these fictions often deal with the loss of loved ones in the attacks, like in 'Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close'.
One great New France historical fiction is 'The Colony of Unrequited Dreams' by Wayne Johnston. It delves into the early days of New France and the characters' lives within that setting.