Final answer:
Historical fiction refers to a literary genre that creates a narrative set in the past, combining factual historical context with fictional elements such as characters and plotlines. It differs from nonfiction in that it offers the writer creative liberty to invent within the framework of historical accuracy without altering established facts. Such narratives connect readers with history while providing a fictional storyline.
Step-by-step explanation:
Historical Fiction Definition
Historical fiction is a genre of literature where the plot takes place in a setting located in the past. The essential characteristic of historical fiction is that it presents a story set in the past, often during a significant time period, with attention to period detail and development of fictional characters that may interact with historical events or figures. Authors in this genre maintain a delicate balance between the factual history and the creative liberties taken for the narrative. For instance, while Victor Hugo's Les Miserables references the French Revolution backdrop, the characters' experiences through the narrative are crafted with literary freedom.
Factors Distinguishing Historical Fiction
Difference Between Fiction and Nonfiction
While nonfiction needs to remain true to fact, fiction is afforded the flexibility of imagination. A work of historical fiction may be rich with historical accuracy, but the addition of fictional elements classifies it as fiction. Conversely, creative nonfiction aims to tell true stories with artistic flair and literary devices while remaining true to factual events.