Accurate research is the soul of historical fiction. Readers want to experience what life was actually like during a certain era in time. The research should be an intrinsic part of the story, and only the writer can give authenticity in a subtle way that enhances the story, rather than take it over.
In order to present more than a cursory look at a certain time in history, the writer must dig into the small details that make historical fiction so fascinating for those drawn to that genre. It can be a time consuming job, but it's the only way to assure authenticity and realism in the novel.
Focus the Research in a Historical Novel
The first thing a writer should decide is exactly when in a certain era the story will take place. It's not enough to say the novel is a romance set in the Middle Ages. This era spanned several hundred years. Instead, choose a certain year or event to focus the story around, such as the reign of one of the kings or the year 1350. Being specific before writing will focus the research and save hours of work.
For example, consider the history of the last 50 years in the United States. Fifty years is actually a very small segment of time, but technology has virtually exploded with new products and ways to communicate. Presidents changed frequently, along with clothing, jobs, food, and how it was prepared.
No writer would want his character to use a microwave before they were invented or listen to a song on the radio by an artist who hadn't been born yet. It may seem like a small error while writing, but it's incorrect. Too many mistakes can turn off the reader and ruin the writer's credibility.
Where to Research Historical Fiction
Most young writers will be tempted to confine their research to the internet. It is true that there is a wealth of information available on hundreds of web sites, and it's a good place to start. Remember that these sites can be written by anyone, and often the facts are vague or contradictory.
A better choice may be to hit the library and book stores. Many historians have written excellent reference books. Those books disclose gems of information that can be used to add life and realism to the story. Don't forget to look at old regional cookbooks, maps of the area, ship registers, and anything that might be of use in adding realism to the setting.
For those writers who truly want to be historically accurate, a trip to the site of the novel will be in order. There is no better way to bring life to a setting than to see it first-hand. If it's impossible to travel, try visiting the nearest museum. Many of the larger museums have excellent exhibits detailing everyday artifacts, clothing, and implements from other eras.
If nothing else, try to find pictures that depict the ordinary items the characters will use every day. Look for historical dress, eating or farming implements, cars that were driven, old appliances, or whatever will add accuracy to the story.
When to Research and When to Write
Writers with a new, creative idea for a historical novel will naturally want to jump into their story and start writing as soon as the plot is developed in their minds.
In the case of writing historical fiction, however, it is usually better to do at least some research before starting on the story. At the very least, read several novels or reference books that take place during or close to the same era.
Serious writers will want to do a more thorough preliminary research. One reason for this is because ideas for scenes become apparent the more the writer knows about the era. Another reason is that mistakes are avoided during the writing that will only have to be corrected later, or worse, missed altogether.
The Importance of Research
No matter how much preliminary research is done, expect the process to continue during the writing of the entire book. Expect to take breaks from writing in order to find out more about a certain aspect of that particular era. Invest in the books written by experts, as they will become invaluable references and will more than likely be in constant use while writing.
The story can be great, but if the research isn't accurate, the book will fail. Invest the time and money in good solid research and increase every chance for success.
Delphine Cull - Delphine Cull has an M.A. in Creative Writing and taught as a Writing Professor for several years. Her articles about the craft of writing ...
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