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What historical time periods or events do you think are overrepresented in the historical fiction genre, and which are underrepresented?

Catharine Linge

Historical fiction has always been a popular genre among readers and writers alike. It allows us to explore past eras and events in a way that is both informative and entertaining. However, like all genres, historical fiction has its own set of tropes and conventions that can lead to some periods or events being overrepresented, while others are underrepresented.

One of the most overrepresented time periods in historical fiction is undoubtedly the medieval era, particularly in novels set in Europe. Whether it's Arthurian legend, the Crusades, or the Hundred Years' War, the medieval period has captured the imaginations of writers and readers for centuries. While there is certainly nothing wrong with exploring this era, the sheer volume of medieval-themed books can make it hard to find something truly original.

Likewise, World War II has also become a popular subject in historical fiction, with countless novels set in Europe, Asia, and even the United States in the 1940s. While there are certainly important stories to be told about this period, it can be difficult to stand out in such a crowded field.

On the other hand, there are many time periods and events that are underrepresented in historical fiction. One such example is the ancient world, particularly outside of Greece and Rome. While there are certainly novels set in ancient Egypt, Babylon, and other civilizations, they are few and far between. There is a wealth of fascinating stories waiting to be told in this era, and I would love to see more writers exploring these lesser-known civilizations.

Another underrepresented time period is the early 20th century, particularly outside of the World War I and II periods. The early 1900s were a time of great social and technological change, with inventions like the automobile and the radio changing the way people lived and worked. As someone who loves the works of authors like Edith Wharton and F. Scott Fitzgerald, I would love to see more novels set in this period that capture the excitement and uncertainty of the time.

Finally, there are many non-European cultures and events that are underrepresented in historical fiction. For example, there are relatively few novels set in Africa, South America, or Asia that explore the rich histories of these regions. Similarly, events like the American Civil Rights Movement or the decolonization of Africa are often overlooked in favor of more famous periods like World War II.

Overall, I believe that historical fiction has the potential to tell powerful and fascinating stories about a wide variety of time periods and events. By exploring both the overrepresented and underrepresented eras and cultures, we can create a more diverse and interesting genre that appeals to readers of all backgrounds.