Although romance novels have long been derided as “bodice-rippers” and “chick lit,” the genre is having a big cultural moment right now, thanks in part to the smash success of Netflix’s “Bridgerton”, adapted from Julia Quinn’s book series. What’s more, some critics have even begun to argue that romance novels are an actually important feminist genre.

How did we reach this point? How did romance novels develop into the genre we recognize today? At each meeting, we’ll discuss a notable romance novel and explore its contribution to the genre as a whole. No prior experience with the subject is necessary.

Molly Keran is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Michigan, where she studies genre and popular literature.

This study group will meet on Mondays for ten weeks beginning on October 18. Preregistration is required via the OLLI website or phone. A link to access the study group will be e-mailed prior to the first session.