This paper advocates the use of correct literary skills that add flavor to the narrative in historical writings. Historians, in their historical presentation of facts, should endeavor to keep the reader engrossed and generate an interest for reading further. This can be accomplished through a variety of ways but, first and foremost, the historian must be proficient in making the right choice of words. It is not that the presentation of facts requires sophisticated writing, but it definitely helps a working historian to write clearly and persuasively. The sharpness of arguments gets reinforced when expressed in a precise language. Intelligent organization and sensitivity to writing style breathe life and meaning into the narrative. This aspect was well recognized by the ancient historians who wrote historical accounts crafted in the exquisite literary style in India and beyond. Thus, an effective narration of history requires more than clear analysis. It demands a good literary stylean awareness of a new stylistics.
Learning
history and writing history cannot be separated, at
least, not distinctly. It becomes significant to explain
this dichotomy, as it is often said that too much importance
is given to "content" and not enough to "grammar
and style." The argument in simple words connotes
that good history equals good writing. In short, this
article aims to help recognize the significance of good
literary skills in the writing of history. It intends
to look at the functional aspects of language that a
working historian should be familiar with.
History
is not solely a representation of mere facts, unique
events, public life, or material artifacts, although
these elements are important to its definition. In a
sense, history comprises the sum total of everything
in the past. But even a brief contemplation makes one
conscious of the fact that this definition is too broad,
primarily because not every part of the past is available
for study, since it was not preserved or recorded. In
this context, history becomes a method, a way of understanding
the past, which takes its most common shape in the form
of written compositions. Such an assessment is based
on several factors. First, clear thinking requires good
writing. One way to think clearly is through writing. |