Second, Oroonoko is a powerful critique of slavery and colonialism. Behn exposes the hypocrisy and corruption of the British colonizers, who claim to be civilized and Christian, but who treat the slaves and the natives with brutality and contempt. She also shows the devastating effects of slavery on the human spirit, as Oroonoko and Imoinda lose their freedom, dignity, and identity. Behn does not shy away from depicting the violence and suffering that the slaves endure, such as whipping, branding, mutilation, and execution.
Third, Oroonoko is a compelling and moving story that appeals to the emotions and the imagination of the reader. Behn uses vivid and colorful language to describe the exotic and beautiful scenery of Suriname, the thrilling and dramatic events of the plot, and the intense and passionate feelings of the characters. She also uses humor, irony, and satire to mock the follies and vices of the colonizers. She creates a contrast between the innocence and simplicity of the natural world and the greed and complexity of the civilized world.
The Life and Times of Aphra Behn
Aphra Behn was born around 1640, during the turbulent period of the English Civil War. She was a woman of mystery, as little is known about her early life, family, and education. She claimed to have visited Suriname in the 1660s, where she met and befriended Oroonoko, the inspiration for her novel. However, some scholars doubt the authenticity of her account, and suggest that she based her story on other sources, such as travel narratives and oral histories1
Behn was a prolific and versatile writer, who wrote plays, poems, essays, translations, and fiction. She was also a spy for King Charles II, who sent her to Antwerp to gather intelligence on the Dutch during the Second Anglo-Dutch War. However, she was not paid for her services, and returned to England in debt and disgrace2
Behn was one of the first women to earn a living by writing, and faced many challenges and prejudices in the male-dominated literary world. She was often criticized for her bold and scandalous themes, such as sexuality, slavery, and colonialism. She was also accused of plagiarism, immorality, and treason. Despite these attacks, she defended her right to write and express her opinions, and gained the respect and admiration of many readers and writers, especially women. She died in 1689, and was buried in Westminster Abbey, with the epitaph: “Here lies a Proof that Wit can never be / Defence enough against Mortality.” 3
The Plot and Characters of Oroonoko
Oroonoko is narrated by an unnamed female narrator, who claims to have witnessed the events of the story in Suriname. She introduces the main character, Oroonoko, as the grandson of the king of Coramantien, a powerful African nation that participates in the slave trade. Oroonoko is a brave and handsome prince, who is admired for his intelligence, courage, and virtue. He is also a skilled warrior and general, who leads his army to victory against their enemies.
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