Women Writing the Neo-Victorian Novel: Erotic "Victorians"

Women writers of the neo-Victorian novel are more philosophical in their approach to representing the erotic than male writers, drawing more heavily on Victorian conventions that would proscribe the graphic depiction of sexual acts. This book explores why women are drawn to the neo-Victorian genre and how the erotic is used to underscore womens creative potential.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 199 pages
Publication date: 29 July 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Women Writing the Neo-Victorian Novel: Erotic "Victorians" delves into the captivating world of British, Irish, and Commonwealth women writers, including the esteemed names of A.S. Byatt, Emma Donoghue, Sarah Waters, Helen Humphreys, Margaret Atwood, and Ahdaf Soueif, among many others. These remarkable authors embark on a daring quest to reimagine the erotic, pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling. Kathleen Renk makes a compelling argument that these women writers adopt a far more philosophical approach to representing the erotic, drawing heavily on Victorian conventions that would otherwise prohibit graphic depictions of sexual acts. This strategic approach leaves room for the readers' imagination to flourish, enhancing the overall erotic experience.

In this thought-provoking book, the author explores several compelling questions. Why are women writers drawn to the neo-Victorian genre? What profound insights does this reveal about the state of contemporary feminism? How do classical and contemporary forms of the erotic intertwine with the ways in which women writers address the Victorian "woman question"? Furthermore, how precisely is the erotic employed to underscore the remarkable creative potential of women?

Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Women Writing the Neo-Victorian Novel: Erotic "Victorians" offers a profound exploration of the intersection between literature, sexuality, and gender. It sheds light on the ways in which these women writers challenge societal norms, subvert expectations, and redefine the erotic in the neo-Victorian era. This book is a valuable contribution to the field of literary studies, providing a fresh perspective on the power of storytelling and the enduring influence of the Victorian era.

Weight: 285g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030482893
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020