Oroonoko

Definition

Oroonoko is a novella written by Aphra Behn, published in 1688, which tells the story of an African prince who is enslaved and taken to the British colonies. This work is significant as it raises issues of race, colonialism, and human rights, reflecting the political and social changes of the Restoration period while also highlighting the emerging female voice in literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oroonoko is considered one of the earliest English novels and an important precursor to later works addressing slavery and race.
2. The novella's protagonist, Oroonoko, embodies the conflict between noble ideals and the brutal reality of slavery.
3. Behn's portrayal of Oroonoko challenges contemporary views on race and humanity, presenting him as a tragic hero deserving of empathy.
4. The story reflects Restoration society's fascination with exotic cultures while critiquing the moral implications of colonialism.
5. Oroonoko showcases Behn's innovative narrative techniques, including direct address to the reader and an exploration of complex emotions.

Review Questions

• How does Oroonoko reflect the political and social changes during the Restoration period?
  • Oroonoko illustrates the changing attitudes toward race and slavery during the Restoration period by presenting a noble African prince who faces dehumanization through enslavement. The novella exposes readers to the moral contradictions inherent in colonialism, highlighting both fascination and horror associated with exotic cultures. This reflects a broader shift in societal views as England grappled with its imperial ambitions and the ethical implications tied to them.
• In what ways does Aphra Behn's narrative style in Oroonoko contribute to the development of the female voice in early novel writing?
  • Aphra Behn's narrative style in Oroonoko employs a blend of first-person narration and commentary that engages readers directly, showcasing her unique voice as a female author. By infusing her work with emotional depth and highlighting Oroonoko's tragic plight, Behn challenges conventional gender roles in literature. Her ability to articulate complex themes such as love, honor, and suffering positions her as a pioneering figure in women's literature during an era when female voices were often marginalized.
• Evaluate how Oroonoko's themes relate to Enlightenment ideals proposed by thinkers like Locke and Newton.
  • Oroonoko’s themes resonate with Enlightenment ideals by questioning concepts of natural rights and human dignity. Locke’s ideas on liberty and personal autonomy come into play as Oroonoko’s character grapples with his loss of freedom due to enslavement. Moreover, through Oroonoko’s tragic story, Behn invites readers to reflect on moral philosophy regarding humanity's treatment of others, challenging prevailing justifications for slavery. This nuanced interplay between character experience and Enlightenment thought highlights the emerging tensions between reason and emotion in societal debates over freedom and ethics.

Related terms

Aphra Behn: Aphra Behn was one of the first professional female writers in England, known for her plays, poetry, and novels, including Oroonoko.

Colonialism: Colonialism refers to the practice of acquiring full or partial control over another country or territory, often involving the exploitation of resources and indigenous peoples.

Narrative Voice: Narrative voice is the perspective from which a story is told, influencing how readers perceive characters and events in literature.