Comparison to Aphra Behn's Contemporaries

Definition

This term refers to the examination of Aphra Behn's work, particularly 'Oroonoko', alongside the literary contributions and thematic concerns of other writers from the same era. By placing Behn in context with her contemporaries, we can understand how her unique perspectives on race, gender, and colonialism diverged from or aligned with the dominant literary trends of the late 17th century.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aphra Behn is often considered one of the first professional female writers in England, standing out among her male contemporaries like John Milton and John Dryden.
2. In 'Oroonoko', Behn's portrayal of the titular character challenges typical narratives of slavery and colonialism that were prevalent in the writings of her time.
3. While many contemporary writers focused on themes of honor and virtue, Behn incorporated complex characterizations that explored the nuances of identity and morality.
4. Behn's works were published at a time when women were largely excluded from literary circles, yet she boldly navigated themes of sexuality and power that resonated with her contemporaries.
5. Unlike many male writers who depicted colonial subjects as mere objects of exploitation, Behn humanized her characters, showcasing their struggles and dignity.

Review Questions

• How does Aphra Behn's approach to themes of race and identity in 'Oroonoko' compare to those found in the works of her male contemporaries?
  • Aphra Behn's approach in 'Oroonoko' is distinctive as she offers a nuanced portrayal of race and identity that diverges from the typical representations found in the works of male contemporaries. While many male authors often objectified colonial subjects, Behn humanizes Oroonoko, emphasizing his dignity and inner turmoil. This portrayal not only critiques colonial attitudes but also invites readers to empathize with characters traditionally marginalized in literature.
• Discuss how Behn’s role as a female author influenced her writing style compared to her male peers during the Restoration period.
  • Behn’s role as a female author significantly influenced her writing style by allowing her to incorporate themes of female agency and sexuality that were often neglected by her male peers. Her ability to address issues like desire and power dynamics added a unique perspective to Restoration literature. This focus on women's experiences created a contrast with male authors who typically emphasized honor and public virtue, thus enriching the literary landscape of her time.
• Evaluate how Behn's 'Oroonoko' reflects broader cultural attitudes towards colonialism compared to other literary works from her contemporaries, and what implications this has for understanding colonial narratives.
  • In evaluating 'Oroonoko', it's clear that Behn challenges broader cultural attitudes towards colonialism by depicting the titular character as both noble and tragic, contrasting with the often exploitative narratives presented by other writers. This nuanced portrayal forces readers to confront the moral complexities surrounding colonial practices rather than accepting them at face value. By contrasting her work with contemporaries who may perpetuate stereotypes or justify colonial exploitation, we gain insights into alternative viewpoints that question societal norms and highlight the humanity within colonial subjects.

Related terms

Restoration Literature:

Literature produced during the Restoration period in England (1660-1700) characterized by its bold themes, exploration of social issues, and often subversive tone.

Colonial Narrative: A genre of literature that reflects the experiences, perspectives, and ideologies surrounding colonial expansion and encounters between different cultures.

Female Authorship: The emergence and impact of women writers in the literary canon, especially in the 17th century, challenging societal norms and contributing new voices to literature.