Aphra Behn
Aphra Behn was a pioneering English playwright, poet, translator, and fiction writer from the Restoration era. She is often considered one of the first English women to earn a living by her writing, and her works contributed significantly to the development of the novel as a literary form.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Oroonoko
The novel tells the story of an African prince, Oroonoko, who is tricked into slavery by European traders. Despite his noble bearing and personal courage, he is shipped to a plantation in Surinam where he leads a slave revolt. The book explores themes of colonialism, slavery, and the juxtaposition of civilization and barbarity. The protagonist's tragic end is a powerful indictment of European barbarity and hypocrisy.
The 575th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. The Rover
"The Rover" is a Restoration comedy that centers around the escapades and romantic misadventures of a group of English cavaliers at the Carnival in Naples. The plot weaves together the tales of love, disguise, and mischievous intrigue as the charming but rakish protagonist and his friends navigate the complex social landscape, pursuing love interests and evading the consequences of their actions. The play tackles themes of love, honor, and the social roles of women, while also offering a humorous and satirical take on the mores of the time. The narrative culminates in a series of mistaken identities and unexpected revelations, ultimately leading to marriages and reconciliations in true comedic fashion.
The 9650th Greatest Book of All Time
