Aphra Behn

Definition

Aphra Behn was a 17th-century English playwright, poet, and novelist, often recognized as one of the first professional female writers in England. Her work reflects the political and social shifts of the Restoration era, challenging gender norms and establishing her as a pivotal figure in the development of English literature and drama.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aphra Behn was not only a playwright but also a spy for the English government, which showcased her involvement in both artistic and political arenas.
2. Her most notable works include 'The Rover,' 'Oroonoko,' and various poetry that challenged contemporary norms about gender and sexuality.
3. Behn was one of the first women to earn a living as a writer, which was groundbreaking at a time when female authorship was largely marginalized.
4. She often used her writing to critique societal norms, particularly regarding women's roles and agency in a male-dominated world.
5. Behn's legacy has grown over time, with her works being celebrated for their wit, complexity, and early feminist insights, influencing later generations of writers.

Review Questions

• How did Aphra Behn's background influence her writing and her role in the Restoration literary scene?
  • Aphra Behn's diverse background as a playwright, poet, and former spy greatly influenced her writing style and subject matter. Her experiences in politics provided her with insights into power dynamics, which she adeptly wove into her plays. As one of the first professional female writers, she broke barriers for women in literature during the Restoration era, using her platform to address gender issues and challenge societal norms.
• Evaluate how Behn's play 'The Rover' exemplifies the themes and characteristics of Restoration comedy.
  • 'The Rover' is a prime example of Restoration comedy with its emphasis on witty dialogue, romantic entanglements, and social satire. The play showcases characters who navigate complex relationships in a world where traditional gender roles are questioned. Through comedic situations and strong female characters, Behn highlights themes of desire and agency while critiquing societal expectations placed upon women during her time.
• Discuss the significance of Aphra Behn's contributions to feminist literature and how her works resonate with modern themes of gender and autonomy.
  • Aphra Behn's contributions to feminist literature are significant as she paved the way for future female authors by exploring themes of female autonomy and challenging patriarchal structures. Her portrayal of strong, complex female characters who assert their desires reflects modern feminist ideals. By addressing issues such as love, power dynamics, and societal expectations in her works, Behn's narratives continue to resonate today, serving as early examples of women's rights advocacy within literature.

Related terms

Restoration Literature: A literary period that followed the English Civil War and the Interregnum, characterized by a revival of theatre and the exploration of themes such as love, power, and morality.

Feminism: A movement advocating for women's rights and equality, which Behn's works often prefigured through her portrayals of strong female characters and social critiques.

The Rover: One of Behn's most famous plays, which is a comedy that explores themes of love, desire, and gender relations in the context of the Restoration.