In historical fiction, we sometimes read about real people in fictional situations:
in Ian Fleming's From Russia, With Love, Serov telephones G, the fictional Head of SMERSH;
Poul Anderson's Manse Everard meets Hiram of Tyre.
In alternative history fiction, we sometimes read about real people in fictional histories. See Prince Rupert, Disraeli and Prince William (here).
I mention this because at least two more historical figures show up in unexpected circumstances in SM Stirling's Theater Of Spies. I say no more now. No images or Wiki links.
Paolo Roberto is not the only public figure to have played himself in a film. Sometimes the hero of one set of narratives is a villain in another.
Looking back at Prince William, reminded me of:
"...the halls of sunken Ys."
-SM Stirling, The Protector's War (New York, 2006), CHAPTER EIGHT, p. 236.
- and:
"...the sun was already setting. It made a path of blood and fire across the water, stretching clouds like hot gold and molten copper along the horizon."
-op. cit., p. 237.
Pure Poul Anderson...
And pure SM Stirling, of course!
1 comment:
Kaor, Paul!
Yes, I too remember how we see the real Prince William being a character in Stirling's Emberverse.
At least we don't see Stirling emulating Poul Anderson's baffling use of "glade"! (Smiles)
Sean
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