Religious and cultural diversity is a major theme too. India has a rich tapestry of religions like Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism etc. Historical fictions often show how these different religions co - existed, sometimes in harmony and sometimes in conflict over the centuries.
One common theme is the struggle for independence. Many works depict the fight against British colonial rule.
Caste system is also a prevalent theme. Writers often explore how the caste system has influenced society throughout history. For example, how it has restricted people's opportunities and caused social unrest.
One common theme is religion. Since religion played a huge role in Ancient India, books often explore Hinduism, Buddhism or Jainism. For example, how religious beliefs influenced the society, the caste system, and the way of life.
One common theme is the exploration of social hierarchies like the caste system. Novels often show how characters are affected by their caste in society.
The border disputes are another common theme. These fictions may explore how the territorial issues could lead to conflict and the various ways in which the two countries' military might respond. They might also include fictional negotiations and diplomatic efforts in the midst of the war - like situation.
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'.
They often draw on India's rich cultural and religious heritage. For example, many incorporate elements from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
The settings are typically richly detailed historical periods in India. It might show the caste system, colonial rule, or other historical aspects in a nuanced way. For example, it can show how people of different castes interacted during a particular historical event, and how those interactions were not always clear - cut. It may also deal with moral ambiguity. Stories might revolve around events where right and wrong are not easily distinguishable, like during a time of political unrest where different groups have their own justifications for their actions.
One common theme is the struggle for acceptance. In many historical periods, homosexuality was not tolerated, so characters often had to fight against society's norms. For example, in Victorian England - set gay historical fictions, characters had to hide their true selves.