Are Fictional Characters Allowed in Historical Novels?

Historical fiction is a creative genre that merges fact and fiction to craft compelling narratives. Contrary to popular belief, there is no "historical fiction police" that will swoop down and penalize writers for integrating fictional characters into their stories. In fact, many renowned authors have successfully blended fictional elements with historical events and figures, revealing the flexibility and depth of this literary form.

George MacDonald Fraser: A Pioneering Example

George MacDonald Fraser is a prime example of an author who has masterfully intertwined fiction and history. Fraser’s novel series revolves around the character of Harry Paget Flashman, a fictional British soldier who plummets into numerous significant historical events throughout the 19th century. In The Flashman Papers, Fraser brings Flashman to life, making him a central figure in major historical battles such as the Battle of Balaclava, where he inevitably finds himself embroiled in the Thin Red Line, the Charge of the Heavy Brigade, and the Charge of the Light Brigade. Interestingly, Flashman's fictional identity is further enhanced by his expulsion from Eton, a detail which aligns him with the character of the bully Flashman from Tom Brown's School Days by Thomas Hughes, published in 1857. This connection adds an intriguing layer of complexity, both to the character and to the narrative.

Alfred Duggan: A Different Approach

Alfred Duggan’s novel Family Favorites sets the stage during the notorious reign of the teenage Emperor Elagabalus (204-222 AD). The majority of the main characters in Duggan’s story are historical, providing a rich backdrop that immerses the reader in the era. However, an intriguing twist lies in the narrator, a fictional Roman centurion, whose actions in the novel are inspired by historical records. However, Duggan took it one step further, as the centurion only performed actions that unnamed centurions actually did, adding authenticity and an air of intrigue. This blend of reality and invention showcases the artistry of historical fiction.

Challenges and Opportunities in Historical Fiction

The integration of fictional characters in historical novels presents both challenges and opportunities. It is incredibly difficult to write historical fiction without incorporating at least some fictional elements, as real events often lack the narrative coherence needed in literature. Moreover, when writing about real historical figures, many minor characters remain unknown or unrecorded. Consequently, authors frequently find themselves fabricating characters to ensure the narrative continues to flow. These fictional characters often serve as sidekicks, foils, or catalysts, enhancing the historical figures they interact with and adding depth to the story.

Conclusion: Embracing the Synergy

In conclusion, the inclusion of fictional characters in historical novels is not only permissible but also a hallmark of the genre. Authors like George MacDonald Fraser and Alfred Duggan illustrate how successfully integrating fiction with historical facts can produce captivating and immersive narratives. Whether through vivid depictions of fictional figures like Harry Paget Flashman or fictional narrators like the Roman centurion in Family Favorites, historical fiction thrives on the tension between real events and imaginative storytelling. This dynamic interplay enriches our understanding of the past and provides readers with captivating tales that blend history and fiction seamlessly.

Historical fiction as a genre is as much about the art of blending fact and fiction as it is about documentary accuracy. It invites authors to be bold, creative, and reflective, encouraging a deeper engagement with history through the lens of imaginative storytelling.