1st Edition
Evolution, Feminism, and Romantic Fiction From Mr. Darcy to Mr. Big.
Introduction. Part One 1. Love: A fundamental human drive 2. Choice: From sexual selection to emotional intelligence 3. Romantic fiction: Tales of female mate choice Part Two Introduction to Pride and Prejudice: “The lady has no choice?” 4. Lydia Bennet: “Tenderly flirting with at least six officers at once” 5. Charlotte Lucas: “I am not romantic ... I ask only a comfortable home” 6. Jane Bennet: “[Her] feelings, though fervent, were little displayed” 7. Elizabeth Bennet: “A union … to the advantage of both” Part Three Introduction to Sex and the City: “Spoiled by choices?” 8. Samantha Jones: “I’m try-sexual, I’ll try anything once” 9. Charlotte York: “You fantasize about a man with a Park Avenue apartment and a nice stock portfolio” 10. Miranda Hobbes: “Soulmates only exist in the Hallmark aisle of Duane Reade Drugs” 11. Carrie Bradshaw: “Tell me I’m the one” 12. Mothers and others. Conclusion.
Biography
Ania Grant is a Professional Teaching Fellow and an Honorary Research Fellow in the Schools of Humanities and Psychological Medicine at the University of Auckland, New Zealand. Her research combines evolutionary and feminist perspectives, as well as qualitative and quantitative methods.
“A triumph of clear thinking, wide knowledge, and astute reading. Darwin rightly called On the Origin of Species “one long argument.” As a feminist and an evolutionist, Grant begins with one long argument showing the value of romantic love and romantic fiction for feminists and everybody else, before her subtle close readings reveal just how much we can learn from two of the most successful of romantic fictions, Pride and Prejudice and Sex in the City.”
Brian Boyd, Distinguished Professor Emeritus of English, University of Auckland, New Zealand
"Evolution, Feminism, and Romantic Fiction cements Ania Grant as the preeminent voice on romantic storytelling. Merging feminist theory with bio-cultural insights, Grant reveals powerful connections between Pride and Prejudice and Sex and the City, redefining the role of women's agency, individuality, and romance across history. Revolutionary, insightful, and unforgettable—this book will be an essential reference for years to come."
Maryanne Fisher, Professor of Psychology, Saint Mary's University, Canada
