The historical novel was established as a literary genre in the 19th century, within the framework of Romanticism, through around twenty publications by the scholar Walter Scott (1771-1832). At a time replete with profound social and cultural changes imposed by modernisation, this type of novel rose up as an artistic expression that responded to the desire to exalt the past of the romantic movement with great acceptance.

Since then, the historical novel has adapted to the narrative evolution that the novel genre has undergone, and in spite of going through moments of splendour and decadence, it now enjoys great popularity.

Sebastián Roa has received several literary prizes such as the Hislibris Prize for the best Spanish author of a historical novel in 2010 or the Cerros Úbeda Prize at the International Historical Novel Contest for the best novel published in 2016. He has served as a jury in historical genre competitions. He is currently giving a practical narrative workshop at the L'Iber Museum in València.

José Luis Corral is considered to be the master of contemporary Spanish historical novels. He is a professor of Medieval History, and he has also received numerous awards such as the Aragonese Letters Award 2017 and the Silver Medal at the thirty-fourth edition of the New York Film and TV Festival.

The Literature Society is an initiative promoted by the Vice-rectorate for Culture and Sport which aims to encourage a love for reading and to promote literary creation and imagination, both in the university community and in society. It is directed by Professor Cristina García Pascual.