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Developing a Historical Fiction: Crafting Characters and Plot in Ancient Rome
In this deep dive into storytelling craft, David Shapiro shares his process for constructing a compelling historical fiction set in ancient Rome, focusing on character development, archetypes, and plot structuring.
Setting the Scene: Background and Premise
The story begins in 110 A.D., centering on a 12-year-old girl named Cornelia Valyria. Her family, part of Rome's aristocratic Patrician class, faces a dramatic downfall when they lose everything. The narrative aims to explore her journey from privileged childhood to uncertain survival, emphasizing themes like the corruption of power and the loss of innocence.