Alastair Wallace’s Take on Historical Fiction - Realism in Medieval Fiction
Historical Fiction is often thought of as a genre that romanticises the past, painting an idealised picture of history. However, Brisbane-based author Alastair Wallace offers a refreshing departure from this tradition with his debut novel. Wallace’s approach to Medieval Fiction strips away the fantasy of knights, castles, and grand battles, focusing instead on the raw, gritty realities of life in a medieval town. Wallace’s novel introduces readers to a loyal jongleur, a wandering musician who navigates the hardships of the medieval world. The character’s life is a portrayal of resilience, loyalty, and the everyday struggles of people who lived in these times. Through the musician’s perspective, Wallace paints a vivid picture of the medieval era’s harsher aspects: the dirt, the noise, and the complex relationships between people just trying to survive. The novel stands out because of its dedication to historical accuracy. Wallace does not shy away from depicting the dirt and struggle of...