The Rover

Definition

The Rover is a comedic play written by Aphra Behn in the late 17th century that explores themes of love, gender roles, and social norms during the Restoration Period. This play is significant as it highlights the era's cultural shift towards more liberated views of sexuality and gender, setting the stage for the development of Restoration drama and the Comedy of Manners, which often showcased witty dialogues and complex social interactions among the upper classes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Rover premiered in 1677 and is noted for its strong female characters who challenge traditional gender roles.
2. Behn's work is recognized for its early exploration of feminist themes and has been analyzed for its commentary on sexual politics.
3. The play's plot revolves around two main characters, Willmore and Hellena, whose romantic entanglements drive the comedic narrative.
4. The Rover reflects the hedonistic culture of the Restoration, emphasizing themes like freedom, desire, and the complexities of love.
5. Aphra Behn's contribution to theatre paved the way for future female playwrights, making her an important figure in literary history.

Review Questions

• How does 'The Rover' reflect the cultural changes during the Restoration Period, especially regarding gender roles?
  • 'The Rover' illustrates significant cultural changes by presenting strong female characters who assert their independence and desire in a male-dominated society. The character Hellena actively pursues her romantic interests, challenging societal norms about women's roles. This portrayal aligns with the Restoration's liberal attitudes towards sexuality and gender, showcasing how literature began to reflect and influence changing societal values.
• In what ways does 'The Rover' utilize elements of Comedy of Manners to critique social norms?
  • 'The Rover' employs witty dialogue, mistaken identities, and elaborate social situations typical of Comedy of Manners to critique upper-class society. The characters engage in clever banter while navigating romantic pursuits, exposing the absurdities of social conventions. By highlighting the superficiality and hypocrisy within these interactions, Behn invites the audience to reflect on their own societal norms and expectations.
• Evaluate the impact of Aphra Behn's 'The Rover' on subsequent literature and its significance in feminist discourse.
  • 'The Rover' had a lasting impact on literature by challenging gender stereotypes and paving the way for future female authors. Behn's nuanced portrayal of women as complex characters with agency influenced later feminist discourse by highlighting issues of autonomy and desire. The play's exploration of sexual politics resonates with modern audiences, affirming its significance as a foundational text in both theatrical history and feminist literary studies.

Related terms

Aphra Behn: Aphra Behn was one of the first English women to earn a living as a writer, becoming a prominent playwright and novelist during the Restoration Period.

Comedy of Manners: A genre of comedy that satirizes the manners and affectations of a social class, particularly the aristocracy, through clever dialogue and complex plots.

Restoration Period: The Restoration Period refers to the time in England after the monarchy was restored in 1660, marked by a flourishing of literature, theatre, and a more open approach to social issues.