Truth, Lies and Historical Fiction
With Robert Goddard, Katharine McMahon and Tim Severin and+ moderator Sean Rocks. Cynics characterise historical fiction as flawed and unreliable history which is to misunderstand its essential nature. History tells us what people do; historical fiction helps us imagine how they felt. And yet, historical novelists differ hugely in their modes of telling stories. Is fidelity to established historical facts strictly to be observed? How much licence may an author use when dealing with historical figures and periods? Is invention more important than research or vice versa?
Historical fiction is currently enjoying a period of massive popularity and here is a marvellous opportunity to hear three leading practitioners discuss their personal approaches to the genre.
Sean Rocks is the presenter of Arena on RTÉ Radio 1.
Recorded at Dublin Castle, Printworks venue on 27th September 2013.