Historical Fiction
Historical fiction is a genre of literature that blends fictional elements with real historical events, settings, or people. These stories are set in the past, often featuring characters who interact with famous historical figures or experience significant events from history.
Key Elements of Historical Fiction
- Setting: The story takes place in a specific historical period or era, with attention to accurate details of the time.
- Characters: Fictional characters interact with real historical figures or are influenced by the events of the time.
- Historical Accuracy: Authors research and incorporate accurate historical details, events, and customs into the story.
- Plot: The plot is often driven by historical events or conflicts, providing a realistic backdrop for the fictional elements.
Study Guide
To better understand historical fiction, consider the following questions while reading:
- What historical period is the story set in? How does the author convey the time period through details?
- How do the fictional characters interact with or react to the historical events or figures in the story?
- What real historical events or conflicts are depicted in the story? How accurately are they portrayed?
- What is the author's purpose in blending fiction with history? How does this enhance the reader's understanding of the time period?
Examples of Historical Fiction
Some well-known examples of historical fiction include:
- To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
- The Help by Kathryn Stockett
- All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
[Historical Fiction] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:
.◂English Language Arts Worksheets and Study Guides Second Grade. Literary Genres
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Literary Genres 
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Literary Genres Worksheet/Answer key
Literary Genres Worksheet/Answer key
Literary Genres
Worksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyThe resources above cover the following skills:
Students read a wide range of print and nonprint texts to build an understanding of texts, of themselves, and of the cultures of the United States and the world; to acquire new information; to respond to the needs and demands of society and the workplace; and for personal fulfillment. Among these texts are fiction and nonfiction, classic and contemporary works. (NCTE)
Students read a wide range of literature from many periods in many genres to build an understanding of the many dimensions (e.g., philosophical, ethical, aesthetic) of human experience. (NCTE)