The Enduring Appeal of Medieval Epic Storytelling: What’s Next for Historical Fiction?
Ken Follett’s upcoming novel, based on a collaboration with artists Dupré and Alcante (previously known for their work on Bolle, Interpol, and Pandora Box), signals a continuing fascination with the medieval period. Follett himself reportedly praised the artwork as “wonderful” and “absolutely excellent” even before publication. But this isn’t just about one author; it’s a trend. Why are we, in the 21st century, so captivated by stories of knights, cathedrals, and societal upheaval from centuries ago?
The Rise of ‘Historial Immersion’ in Entertainment
The success of works like The Pillars of the Earth (and its sequels – World Without End, A Column of Fire, Kingsbridge, and The Evening and the Morning) isn’t accidental. It taps into a desire for “historical immersion.” Readers and viewers aren’t simply looking for a plot; they want to *experience* another time. This is a key driver in the popularity of historical dramas like Netflix’s The Last Kingdom, which saw a 28% increase in viewership during the pandemic lockdowns (source: Statista), and video games like Kingdom Come: Deliverance, lauded for its realistic depiction of 15th-century Bohemia.
This trend extends beyond entertainment. “Dark tourism” – travel to sites associated with death, disaster, or the macabre – is a growing industry, with a reported annual growth rate of 6% pre-pandemic (source: Journal of Tourism and Cultural Change). People are actively seeking authentic experiences connected to the past.
Architecture as a Narrative Driver
Alcante’s description of the new Follett novel highlights the central role of cathedral building. This isn’t a coincidence. Architecture, particularly monumental structures like cathedrals, serves as a powerful metaphor for societal ambition, faith, and the passage of time. The construction process itself – the labor, the artistry, the political maneuvering – provides a compelling narrative framework.
We see this reflected in the increasing popularity of architectural history documentaries and tours. The Notre Dame fire in 2019 sparked a global outpouring of grief and a renewed interest in Gothic architecture, demonstrating its cultural significance. Furthermore, the use of architectural visualization and digital reconstruction is allowing audiences to experience historical buildings in ways never before possible.
Beyond Knights and Ladies: The Nuances of Medieval Life
Modern historical fiction is moving beyond romanticized portrayals of the medieval period. There’s a growing demand for stories that explore the lives of ordinary people – the peasants, the artisans, the women – and the darker aspects of medieval society, such as disease, poverty, and social injustice.
Authors like Sharon Penman (known for her meticulously researched novels about medieval England and Wales) and Conn Iggulden (famous for his Emperor series focusing on Roman history) have paved the way for this more nuanced approach. This trend aligns with a broader cultural shift towards greater inclusivity and a desire to understand history from multiple perspectives.
Pro Tip: When researching historical fiction, look for authors who prioritize accuracy and detail. Check their sources and look for evidence of thorough research.
The Future of Medieval Storytelling: Interactive Experiences and Virtual Reality
The future of historical fiction likely lies in interactive and immersive experiences. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies offer the potential to transport audiences directly into the medieval world. Imagine exploring a digitally reconstructed Kingsbridge Cathedral or witnessing a battle firsthand.
Game developers are already experimenting with these technologies. Projects like Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, while not strictly historically accurate, demonstrate the potential for creating engaging and immersive medieval environments. The integration of AI-powered storytelling could further personalize these experiences, allowing users to shape the narrative and interact with historical figures.
FAQ
Q: Why is medieval history so popular?
A: It offers a compelling blend of adventure, romance, political intrigue, and societal upheaval, providing a rich backdrop for storytelling.
Q: Is historical fiction accurate?
A: It varies. The best historical fiction is meticulously researched, but authors often take creative liberties for narrative purposes.
Q: What are some other popular medieval historical fiction authors?
A: Bernard Cornwell, Elizabeth Chadwick, and Ken Follett are all highly regarded.
Did you know? The term “Middle Ages” was actually coined by Renaissance scholars who viewed the period as a decline from the classical civilizations of Greece and Rome.
Want to delve deeper into the world of historical fiction? Explore our other articles on historical novels and immersive storytelling. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and recommendations!
