Intelligence Squared
Philippa Gregory and Tracy Chevalier on Weaving the Story into Historical Fiction, Part Two
Oct 1, 2024
Philippa Gregory, a powerhouse in historical fiction celebrated for her works like "The Other Boleyn Girl," teams up with Tracy Chevalier, known for "Girl with a Pearl Earring." They dive into the importance of historical accuracy, especially in women's narratives, urging for authentic storytelling. The conversation touches on the evolution of women's roles in glassmaking in Murano and the struggles depicted in Mary Edwards’ story. Their insights into research and crafting narratives reflect the blend of truth and creativity in their writing.
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Quick takeaways
- Philippa Gregory and Tracy Chevalier emphasize the importance of accurate historical research in portraying women's untold stories through fiction.
- The authors discuss the cyclical nature of women's rights throughout history, highlighting modern inequities and cultural acceptance of violence against women.
Deep dives
The Role of Historical Research in Fiction
Accurate historical research is essential in bringing untold stories of women to light through fiction. Authors Philippa Gregory and Tracy Chevalier emphasize the responsibility they bear to ensure that their narratives depict history truthfully, as their works aim to present the lives of women who are often marginalized in traditional histories. This dedication to accuracy means that Gregory meticulously footnotes her work to guide readers to the original sources, providing a bibliography for deeper exploration. Chevalier echoes this commitment, sharing her own experience of resisting the urge to stretch historical facts, even in creative contexts, to preserve the integrity of the characters she writes about.
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