Devoney Looser Books

Exploring the contributions of British women writers to historiography from 1670 to 1820, the book examines why some women opted to replicate male-dominated historical narratives that marginalized their own gender. Devoney Looser highlights that while these writings may not have been explicitly feminist, they played a crucial role in shaping discussions around the genre of history. This work challenges the perception of history as a male-only domain, revealing the complexities of women's involvement in historical discourse during the long eighteenth century.

The book explores the significant yet overlooked impact of British women writers who initially drove a marketplace revolution but faced unexpected challenges later in life. By examining their legacy, the author contributes to the emerging field of feminist age studies, shedding light on the complexities of acceptance and recognition for these influential figures.

Whether you're a devoted Janeite or simply Jane-curious, The Making of Jane Austen will have you thinking about how a literary icon is made, transformed, and handed down from generation to generation.