Date of Award
2014
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Social Sciences
First Advisor
Fairchild, Emily
Keywords
Romance Novels, Politics, Gender, Sexism, Feminism
Area of Concentration
Sociology
Abstract
Over the past forty years, romance novels have been subject to much debate among feminists about whether they are patriarchal, feminist, or unrelated to gender politics. In this study, qualitative interviews of feminist-identified romance novel readers explore the strategies they use to interpret romance novels in the light of their political beliefs. Three strategies commonly used by readers are discussed: the escapist strategy, which says romance novels are unrelated to gender politics; the critical engagement strategy, which examines and rejects sexist novels; and the actively feminist strategy, which highlights aspects of romance novels considered feminist. In addition, many readers see criticism of romance novels as itself sexist. These strategies and beliefs reflect the liberal feminism of romance novel readers.
Recommended Citation
Brennan, Abigail, "FEMINISM AND ROMANCE NOVELS" (2014). Theses & ETDs. 4858.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/4858