Aphra Behn

Definition

Aphra Behn was a groundbreaking English playwright and poet of the Restoration era, recognized as one of the first professional female writers in England. Her works often challenged social norms and showcased strong female characters, reflecting the changing dynamics of gender roles during the late 17th century. Behn's contributions to Restoration comedy and drama significantly influenced the literary landscape, as she boldly explored themes of love, sexuality, and power.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aphra Behn was born in 1640 and became a prominent figure in Restoration literature after her career as a spy for the British government.
2. She wrote more than twenty plays during her lifetime, with 'The Rover' being one of her most acclaimed works that still resonates in modern discussions about gender and power.
3. Behn's style was notable for its blend of humor and social commentary, often addressing issues such as class distinctions and sexual politics.
4. Her success paved the way for future generations of women writers, challenging the male-dominated literary scene of her time.
5. Behn's legacy is celebrated in feminist literary criticism, as her works are seen as early examples of women's voices in literature advocating for autonomy and self-expression.

Review Questions

• How did Aphra Behn's work reflect the themes and characteristics of Restoration comedy?
  • Aphra Behn's works embody the characteristics of Restoration comedy through their witty dialogue, sexual innuendos, and complex characters. Her plays often center on romantic entanglements and social commentary, effectively utilizing humor to critique societal norms. In particular, 'The Rover' explores themes of love and seduction while highlighting women's agency, showcasing how Behn contributed to the rich tapestry of Restoration comedy during this vibrant literary period.
• In what ways did Aphra Behn challenge gender norms through her writing, and how did this impact contemporary views on women in literature?
  • Aphra Behn challenged traditional gender norms by presenting strong, independent female characters who navigated their desires and societal expectations. By becoming a successful professional writer at a time when women's voices were often marginalized, she carved out a space for female representation in literature. This boldness in addressing issues like sexuality and power dynamics not only influenced her contemporaries but also laid groundwork for future feminist discourse in literature.
• Evaluate the significance of Aphra Behn's contributions to literature and their lasting impact on feminist literary criticism.
  • Aphra Behn's contributions to literature are significant as she broke barriers for women in writing during the Restoration era. By producing works that explored female perspectives on love, sexuality, and power dynamics, she inspired subsequent generations of women writers to express their voices freely. Her legacy continues to resonate within feminist literary criticism, where her writings are examined for their early advocacy of women's rights and autonomy in a predominantly male literary landscape.

Related terms

Restoration Comedy: A genre of comedic plays that emerged in England after the Restoration of Charles II in 1660, characterized by witty dialogue, sexual innuendos, and complex characters.

Feminism: A movement advocating for women's rights and equality, which gained momentum in literature through the works of writers like Behn, who highlighted women's experiences and perspectives.

The Rover: One of Aphra Behn's most famous plays, a comedy that features themes of love and seduction, showcasing the complexities of sexual relationships and the role of women in society.