Historical Fiction Facts & Worksheets

Historical fiction is a genre of literature that blends fictional characters, events, and plots with authentic historical settings, contexts, and sometimes actual historical figures. It usually takes place in the past, typically before the author’s lifetime, and aims to immerse readers in a particular period while telling a compelling story.

See the fact file below for more information about Historical Fiction, or you can download our 25-page Historical Fiction worksheet pack to utilize within the classroom or home environment.

Key Facts & Information

KEY ASPECTS OF HISTORICAL FICTION

• Historical fiction is a captivating genre that transports readers to different eras, offering a unique blend of imagination and historical accuracy. Here are the key aspects that define historical fiction:
• Authentic Settings: One of the hallmarks of historical fiction is its authentic portrayal of historical settings. Whether it’s ancient Rome, medieval Europe, or the American Civil War era, the setting serves as a backdrop that immerses readers in a specific time and place. 
• Authors meticulously research the period’s architecture, fashion, customs, language, and social norms to create a vivid and believable world.
• Actual Historical Events: Historical fiction often incorporates factual events into its narrative. From wars and revolutions to political movements and cultural shifts, these events provide the framework for the story. 
• While the characters and their experiences may be fictional, they are often intertwined with the fabric of history, offering readers a glimpse into how ordinary people might have lived through extraordinary times.
• Complex Characters: While historical figures may make appearances, the protagonists of historical fiction are often fictional characters. 
• These characters are multifaceted and relatable, navigating the challenges and conflicts of their era while grappling with universal themes such as love, loss, ambition, and resilience. 
• Through their literary journeys, readers gain insights into the human experience across different historical periods.
• Research and Accuracy: Authors of historical fiction undertake extensive research to ensure the accuracy of their portrayals, including studying primary sources, consulting historians, visiting historical sites, and delving into archival materials.
• While creative liberties may be taken for the sake of storytelling, the best historical fiction maintains a balance between authenticity and imagination, respecting the historical record while weaving a compelling narrative.
• Social Commentary: Historical fiction often serves as a lens through which to explore contemporary issues and themes. 
• By examining the past, authors shed light on present-day concerns such as power dynamics, social justice, inequality, and human rights.
• Through the struggles and triumphs of characters from different historical periods, readers gain perspective on the continuity of some societal issues and the progress—or lack thereof—over time.
• Cultural Immersion: Historical fiction offers readers the opportunity to immerse themselves in various cultures and societies, broadening their understanding of diverse perspectives and worldviews. 
• Whether it’s exploring the traditions of feudal Japan, the courtly intrigues of Renaissance Italy, or the frontier spirit of the American West, historical fiction celebrates the richness and diversity of human civilization throughout history.
• Timeless Themes: While historical fiction is rooted in specific periods, it often explores themes that transcend temporal boundaries.
• Love, betrayal, honor, sacrifice, redemption, and the quest for identity are just a few examples of timeless themes that resonate across different historical epochs. 
• By tapping into these universal truths, historical fiction speaks to readers across generations, offering insights and reflections on the human condition.
• In conclusion, historical fiction is a genre that combines meticulous research, vivid storytelling, and timeless themes to transport readers to different eras while shedding light on the complexities of the past and its relevance to the present. 
• Through its authentic settings, compelling characters, and exploration of factual historical events, historical fiction offers readers a captivating journey through time and a deeper understanding of the human experience.

NOTABLE HISTORICAL FICTION AROUND THE WORLD

• United States: “Gone with the Wind” by Margaret Mitchell (1936): Set in the American South during the Civil War and Reconstruction era, it follows the life of Scarlett O’Hara.
• United Kingdom: “Wolf Hall” by Hilary Mantel (2009): Set in Tudor England, it offers a fictionalized account of Thomas Cromwell’s rise to power in the court of Henry VIII.
• “The Pillars of the Earth” by Ken Follett (1989): Set in 12th-century England, it follows the construction of a cathedral in the fictional town of Kingsbridge.
• Russia: “War and Peace” by Leo Tolstoy (1869): Set against the backdrop of Napoleon’s invasion of Russia, it explores themes of love, war, and society in early 19th-century Russia.
• France: “Les Misérables” by Victor Hugo (1862): Set in early 19th-century France, it tells the story of Jean Valjean, an ex-convict seeking redemption.
• “The Three Musketeers” by Alexandre Dumas (1844): Set in 17th-century France, it follows the adventures of d’Artagnan and the Musketeers during the reign of Louis XIII.
• Japan: “The Tale of Genji” by Murasaki Shikibu (11th century): Often considered the world’s first novel, it offers a fictional account of the life and loves of Prince Genji in the Heian period of Japan.
• “Musashi” by Eiji Yoshikawa (1935-1939): Based on the life of Miyamoto Musashi, a legendary swordsman in feudal Japan.
• India: “The God of Small Things” by Arundhati Roy (1997): Set in Kerala, India, it tells the story of an Indian family against a backdrop of political and social upheaval.
• “A Suitable Boy” by Vikram Seth (1993): Set in post-independence India, it follows the lives of four families as they navigate love, politics, and tradition.
• Italy: “The Name of the Rose” by Umberto Eco (1980): Set in an Italian monastery in the 14th century, it follows a Franciscan friar as he investigates a series of mysterious deaths.
• Spain: “The Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafón (2001): Set in post-World War II Barcelona, it follows a young boy who discovers a mysterious book that leads him into a labyrinth of secrets.
• China: “The Good Earth” by Pearl S. Buck (1931): Set in rural China before World War I, it follows the struggles of a Chinese peasant family.
• Australia: “The Secret River” by Kate Grenville (2005): Set in early 19th-century Australia, it tells the story of a convict who seeks a new life in the Australian wilderness.

WHY IS HISTORICAL FICTION POPULAR?

• Historical fiction remains popular for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it offers readers a captivating blend of reality and imagination, allowing them to experience historical events and periods through the lens of vivid storytelling. 
• By weaving fictional characters and narratives into real historical contexts, these novels bring history to life in a way that textbooks often cannot, making it more engaging and relatable for readers.
• Moreover, historical fiction provides a means of understanding the past through personal perspectives and emotions, offering insights into the lives, struggles, and triumphs of people from different eras and cultures. 
• Through empathizing with fictional characters, readers can develop a deeper appreciation for the complexities of historical events and the human experiences intertwined with them.

Historical Fiction Worksheets

This fantastic bundle includes everything you need to know about Historical Fiction across 25 in-depth pages. These ready-to-use worksheets are perfect for teaching kids about Historical Fiction. Historical Fiction usually takes place in the past, typically before the author’s lifetime, and aims to immerse readers in a particular period while telling a compelling story.

Complete List of Included Worksheets

Below is a list of all the worksheets included in this document.

1. Historical Fiction Facts
2. Genre Elements
3. Historical Hot Tips
4. Characters in History
5. Building Characters
6. A Victorian Story
7. The First Novel
8. From Novel to Film
9. Song for the King
10. Father of Historical Fiction 
11. Local Historical Fiction

Frequently Asked Questions

What defines a historical fiction novel within the realm of English Language Arts (ELA)?

Historical fiction is a genre that blends fictional characters and events with historical settings and contexts. It often explores real historical periods, cultures, or events while incorporating imaginative narratives.

Can you give an example of a famous historical fiction novel often studied in ELA classes?

Certainly, “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee is a quintessential example. Set in the 1930s American South, it explores themes of racial injustice and moral growth against the backdrop of the Great Depression.

How does studying historical fiction contribute to ELA curriculum goals?

Analyzing historical fiction helps students develop critical thinking skills by engaging with complex narratives that intertwine historical facts and literary elements. It encourages students to analyze character motivations, societal norms, and historical contexts, fostering a deeper understanding of both literature and history.

What are some common literary techniques used in historical fiction?

Authors often employ techniques such as vivid description, dialogue reflective of the historical period, and careful research to create an immersive historical atmosphere. They may also incorporate real historical figures or events into their narratives, blending fact with fiction seamlessly.

How does historical fiction serve as a lens for exploring contemporary issues?

Despite being set in the past, historical fiction frequently addresses themes and issues relevant to modern society, such as social justice, inequality, and the human condition. By examining historical contexts and characters’ experiences, readers can gain insight into contemporary challenges and reflect on the progress—or lack thereof—made over time.

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