Due: Wednesday, May 16
Length: 4 pages minimum (double spaced, 12-point font, 1-inch margins); also include a bibliography.
The idea behind this type of writing--historical fiction--is to "fill in the gaps" left by the historians; to create character traits, dialogue, motivations which agree with the historical record and make it come alive.
To do this, especially in the limited amount of space you have, you need to pick a single aspect of the character or a single moment in that character's life, and really get into it and explore it. For example, many of the figures were somehow involved in the military -- you could write about that character's preparations, thoughts, and feelings on the eve of the battle.
Think carefully about the voice you want to use. I, Caesar suggests a first person narrator (obviously). This is an extremely effective way to deal with your character, but to do this well you will need to think about how your character would express himself/herself, what that character would feel was important, etc. You could also adopt the persona of someone close to your character -- a soldier, child, slave, etc.--and give us your character through that person's eyes. Again, you will need to imagine carefully who that person is, what he/she feels, etc. There is always the reliable third person narrative; the demands there are that you supply more historical data through description and information. For instance, if you were describing the eve of the battle, you would want to give some account of the terrain, what a Roman tent was like, etc.
For all of these, you will need to do some research and consult the Life Styles portion of this web site about the little aspects of Roman life--food, clothing, etc. -- to give your writing a feel of well-researched authenticity. These kinds of small, real details set a piece of historical fiction apart from other types of creative writing, so don't ignore them. Remember that you're looking for authenticating details, not complete knowledge of a topic. Focus your researching efforts on exactly what you need! Also keep in mind the Ides of April. This piece of historical fiction by Mary Ray does a great job of subtly creating a convincing ancient Roman background for her characters to live in. As you read, take careful note of how she creates her world.
Suggested Reference Reading
Here are some books which you can use as a reference for those "little details".
The Roman Theater and it's Audience. Richard Beacham
Cookery and Dining in Imperial Rome. Apicius. Joseph Dommers Vehling
Riding for Caesar. Michael Speidel
The Romans: their Life and Customs. E.Guhl and W. Koner
The Romans. Andrea Giardina
Daily Life in Ancient Rome. Jérome Carcopino
Women in Ancient Greece and Rome. Michael Massey
Aspects of Roman Life: Roman Family Life. Peter Hodge
Roman Towns. Peter Hodge
The Roman House. Peter Hodge
Roman Religion. Michael Massey
Roman Technology and Crafts. Miranda Green
Greek and Roman Sports. Clearvue/eav (video)
