The historical novel is both loved and debated. It combines fact and fiction, giving thoughts and emotions to people who can no longer speak for themselves. It can bring the past to life and offer powerful reading experiences.
Hilde Hagerup’s critically acclaimed novel Du eneste tells the story of the relationship between Gunvor Hofmo and Ruth Maier, and how they are torn apart during the Second World War. Ruth Maier was murdered by the Nazis, and Gunvor Hofmo was never the same again.
Hilde Hagerup will be interviewed by Tore Renberg, who is also the author of a critically acclaimed historical novel based on real people. Lungeflyteprøven is set in the 17th century and tells the story of Anna Voigt, a young woman accused of killing her newborn child.
Together, Hagerup and Renberg will discuss how they have explored archives and researched the real lives behind their fictional characters. They will also reflect on the ethical considerations involved when historical facts meet the demands of the novel’s structure and storytelling.
The event is part of Kapittel – Stavanger International Festival of Literature and Freedom of Expression, 16–20 September 2026.
More information, the programme and tickets can be found at www.kapittel.no.
At some events at Sølvberget and during the Kapittel Festival, photographs and video recordings are taken for documentation purposes and for use on social media.
