Aphra Behn

Definition

Aphra Behn was a pioneering 17th-century English playwright, poet, and novelist, recognized as one of the first professional female writers in the English language. Her works often blend elements of romance and the picaresque tradition, reflecting her unique perspective as a woman in a male-dominated literary landscape. Behn's exploration of themes such as gender, class, and sexuality laid the groundwork for future generations of women writers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aphra Behn is best known for her play 'The Rover,' which combines elements of romantic comedy with a critique of gender roles.
2. She was one of the first women in England to earn a living through her writing, breaking significant barriers for future female authors.
3. Behn's work often features strong female characters who challenge societal norms and assert their independence.
4. In addition to plays, Behn wrote poetry and novels, including 'Oroonoko,' which is recognized for its early commentary on slavery and colonialism.
5. Her writing style is notable for its wit, humor, and complex characterizations, which helped redefine what literature could achieve.

Review Questions

• How did Aphra Behn's works reflect the characteristics of romance and picaresque traditions?
  • Aphra Behn's works intertwine elements of romance with the picaresque tradition by featuring adventurous protagonists who navigate complex social landscapes. In plays like 'The Rover,' romantic pursuits occur alongside comedic escapades, illustrating both desire and deception. This blend allows her to critique social norms while exploring themes like love and identity, showcasing how her characters often find themselves in humorous yet challenging situations that highlight the intricacies of human relationships.
• Discuss the impact of Aphra Behn on the development of feminist literature.
  • Aphra Behn's contributions significantly shaped feminist literature by providing a voice for women in a time when female writers were rare. Her exploration of female agency in works like 'The Rover' challenged traditional gender roles and presented strong female characters who asserted their independence. By addressing themes related to love, power dynamics, and sexual autonomy, Behn laid the groundwork for later feminist authors to build upon her ideas and confront societal expectations.
• Evaluate the significance of Behn’s use of humor in her narratives within the context of romance and picaresque traditions.
  • Aphra Behn's use of humor serves as a powerful tool to critique societal norms while entertaining her audience. In blending romance with picaresque elements, she employs wit to expose the absurdities of class and gender dynamics in her characters' adventures. This humor not only makes her stories engaging but also allows for deeper commentary on morality and human behavior, pushing readers to reflect on their own values within a rapidly changing society. The balance she strikes between light-heartedness and serious critique enhances the richness of her narratives.

Related terms

Restoration Literature: A body of English literature produced during the Restoration period (1660-1700) characterized by its focus on comedy, wit, and satirical themes.

Picaresque Novel: A genre of prose fiction that depicts the adventures of a roguish protagonist living by their wits in a corrupt society, often emphasizing social criticism.

Feminist Literature: A literary movement that seeks to address the issues of women's rights and gender equality through the exploration of women's experiences and perspectives.