Essentials of Historical Fiction

Writers of all genres can gain essential storytelling techniques from studying historical fiction. With a focus on craft and practical insight, this creative writing seminar is designed to provide greater understanding of this ever popular and complex genre, and what sets it apart from contemporary literary prose. During the first half of the seminar, students will examine and discuss the essential characteristics of historical fiction, drawing from the work of Madeline Miller, Colson Whitehead, Anchee Min, E.L. Doctorow and Toni Morrison. Students will have the opportunity to do in-class activities that offer techniques and strategies for undertaking necessary research to incorporating this material into scenes, plot lines and characters in order to infuse one’s work with a greater sense of authenticity and nuance. Students will also be able to share their own historical fiction projects during the second half of the seminar, with an opportunity to workshop excerpts from manuscripts-in-progress, focusing on revision techniques, character, story, and setting development.

Class Format

This class will take place using Zoom videoconferencing. About 15 minutes before your class is scheduled to begin, you'll receive an email from your instructor with a link to join the class meeting!

Scholarship Information

Thanks to the excellent literary citizenship of our donors, scholarships are available for all GrubStreet classes. To apply, click the gray "APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP" button. In order to be considered for a scholarship, you must complete your application at least one week before the start date of a class. Please await our scholarship committee's decision before registering for the class. We cannot hold spots in classes, so the sooner you apply, the better. Scholarships cannot be applied retroactively.

For more more detailed information about GrubStreet scholarships, including how to contribute to scholarship funds for other students, click here.