Huh, I suppose that puts the exposition into an odd context!
The book has a foreword in which O'Brian discusses his research material and seems to be defending doing just that: 'the admirable men of those times... are best celebrated in their own splendid actions rather than in imaginary contests; that authenticity is a jewel... I don't know the history at all and couldn't recognise anything, but I would raise an eyebrow at some of what he says (does historical fiction aim to 'celebrate the admirable men of those times', through ripping off their historical actions or otherwise???).
Perhaps I shouldn't ask further about your Opinions until I've read a few more of the books... it does sound like the later ones are more worth reading, anyway. :)
no subject
The book has a foreword in which O'Brian discusses his research material and seems to be defending doing just that: 'the admirable men of those times... are best celebrated in their own splendid actions rather than in imaginary contests; that authenticity is a jewel... I don't know the history at all and couldn't recognise anything, but I would raise an eyebrow at some of what he says (does historical fiction aim to 'celebrate the admirable men of those times', through ripping off their historical actions or otherwise???).
Perhaps I shouldn't ask further about your Opinions until I've read a few more of the books... it does sound like the later ones are more worth reading, anyway. :)