When was the first romance novel written? This question has intrigued literature enthusiasts for centuries. The origins of the romance novel can be traced back to the early 18th century, a time when the genre began to take shape and gain popularity among readers.
The first known romance novel is often credited to “The Lover” by French author Pierre de Marivaux, published in 1725. However, this work is more of a comedy of manners than a traditional romance novel. The true birth of the genre is attributed to “The Castle of Otranto” by Horace Walpole, published in 1764. This novel, often considered the first Gothic novel, also laid the groundwork for the romance genre with its elements of chivalry, love, and adventure.
As the 19th century approached, the romance novel gained momentum and began to flourish. One of the most influential authors in the genre was Sir Walter Scott, whose “Waverley” series, starting with “Waverley; or, ‘Tis Sixty Years Since” in 1814, introduced readers to the Scottish Highlands and its rich history. These novels combined romance with historical elements, which became a hallmark of the genre.
Jane Austen, another prominent 19th-century author, made a significant impact on the romance genre with her works, such as “Pride and Prejudice” (1813) and “Sense and Sensibility” (1811). Austen’s novels are known for their wit, social commentary, and the exploration of love and marriage.
The romance genre continued to evolve throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, with authors like the Brontë sisters, George Eliot, and Emily Brontë contributing to its growth. The genre reached new heights in the 20th century, particularly with the publication of “The Sheik” by Edith Maude Hull in 1919, which became a bestseller and paved the way for the modern romance novel.
Today, the romance genre is one of the most popular in the literary world, encompassing various sub-genres such as historical romance, contemporary romance, and paranormal romance. The question of when was the first romance novel written may have been answered, but the genre’s journey and evolution continue to captivate readers worldwide.
