HISTORICAL ROMANCES Meaning and
Definition
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Historical romances refer to a literary genre that encompasses novels, stories, or movies set in the past, typically before the 20th century, which revolve around a romantic storyline. These narratives usually feature a central love story or love interest, which is set against the backdrop of a specific historical era. Historical romances often incorporate elements of adventure, intrigue, and societal norms and customs of the period in order to create an immersive and authentic historical setting.
In historical romances, authors or filmmakers often combine fictional characters with real historical figures, events, or locations, blending fact and fiction to create a captivating narrative. By weaving romance into the fabric of history, these stories transport readers or viewers to a different time, allowing them to experience the allure and ambiance of bygone eras.
The appeal of historical romances lies in their ability to provide both an escape into the past and a glimpse into the universal human emotions and experiences that span across time. These stories often explore themes of love, passion, sacrifice, and personal growth, while also shedding light on the social dynamics, cultural practices, and challenges faced by individuals of the period. Although historical romances predominantly focus on the romantic aspect, they can also incorporate other genres such as mystery, adventure, or even fantasy elements to create a layered and multi-faceted narrative.
Etymology of HISTORICAL ROMANCES
The term "historical romances" originated from the combination of two distinct words - "historical" and "romances".
1. Historical:
The word "historical" is derived from the Latin word "historia", which means "account, narrative, or history". In Old English, it was spelled as "historicalle", and it referred to something related to history or the past. The term "historical" has been used to describe events, stories, or objects that belong to a particular period in the past.
2. Romances:
The word "romances" has its roots in the Old French term "romanz", which is related to the Vulgar Latin word "romanice", meaning "in the Roman manner". Initially, "romances" referred to stories written in the Romance languages (derived from Latin), such as French, Spanish, or Italian.
