Abstract
Examines Jonathan Spence's book `The Question of Hu,' asking the central question as to what difference it makes it the book is viewed as history or fiction. Spence's treatment of his materials; Question of the historical novel following on the work of George Lukacs and Sir Walter Scott; Conclusion that Spence's work is not of this genre; Not a true piece of historical narrative; Touches of grandiosity; Communication and its breakdown.