Romance readers agree that "Clothes Make the Man," especially in the proper historic context! Many of the societal restrictions imposed on women in the past just don't apply today, and of course romances reflect this trend; there aren't nearly as many contemporary romances that utilize this theme as there are Historicals. Curiously, since women are now generally afforded the freedom to act as they choose, dressing outside of fashion isn't an issue. In fact, now that gender rules are looser, we're finding men are the ones that want to don "ladies" clothes. Suddenly they are finding that there are just some things you can do better wearing a skirt!
Imagine being told you can't do something simply because you're a woman! History has shown that most women of all cultures were told just that. What to do if you don't want to be inhibited by the rules proscribed to women? Dress as a man! Disguised as a male, the heroine has the freedom to explore all the adventurous life choices normally available only to the hero. The freedom to choose is essential, but what readers really love are the hilarious antics that ensue during any sort of cross-dressing charade!
What's The Appeal?
Freud called it "Penis Envy," but romantics know better; it's not the male member women envy, but the male lifestyle. In the 20th century, women can do it all. They have the right to vote, earn wages, join the military and rear children. But historically, things have been very different. Restricted by culture and mores, women once had relatively little freedom, especially with regard to who they married. They were admired only for their lady-like charms, and were considered to be past their prime at an early age.
In the past, women were admired for refined skills. They were taught the art of conversation, to paint, to needlepoint, to play the pianoforte and to dance. So what of those women who would do better to tie knots, read maps, or ride camels? Independent and adventurous women who yearn to travel, to be educated like a man, to practice and preach politics? These women of independent spirit were considered "hard," unfeminine and absolutely unladylike–and were destined for spinsterhood. No man in his right mind would want a wife who was more courageous, adventurous and possibly even more powerful than he.
Romance novels are adventures of the spirit as well as the body. Fantasies where women have the right to shed the rules and restrictions of society by just putting on another suit of clothing. Women learned early on that their power lay in the art of manipulation, subterfuge, flirtation and charm. To practice the further deception of donning another wardrobe to gain freedom is simplicity itself!
There is power in belief–the heroine who is disguised as a male wins the power and independence she desires through disguise. But what she discovers is that love comes in many forms. And her true mate will love her in any form. Just like the Emperor in his new clothes, the heroine learns that appearances can be deceiving and that freedom, the truth, and true love can only be found by being true to who you are–gender and all!
-Kate Ryan
|
Site Map
