The Rover, By Aphra Behn Essay - 1205 Words

Literature, in its many forms, captures the essence of human experience. Emotions, memories, hopes, and dreams are all frozen in time so that they never be forgotten. Yet, time destroys all things, and as time marches on the purpose behind such raw displays of human essence are sometimes forgotten. Within a modern society, the idea that women have, and should, express their desires, passions, and opinions comes by naturally. However, this universal truth was not always deemed acceptable. There was a time where female sexuality, personal identity, and desires were simply dismissed. It is with this knowledge in mind that the meaning behind Aphra Behn’s comedy The Rover is felt in full force. With the historical context of the Restoration period taken into account, Behn’s work becomes something far more than just a play inspired to bring an audience a good laugh. It is a testament to the skill of a woman, who took the title of professional writer for herself, despite a ti me period where such an action was met with contemp. It is a critique on a society that held no respect for women as individuals. Finally, it is a subtle, but vital push to change that misogynistic view. Through a complex and developed female cast, as well as bold depictions of sexuality, Behn’s play critiques and challenges Restoration views of women. Before analyzing the play, itself, it is of significant importance to better understand the level of opposition faced by Behn during her time. Perhaps one ofShow MoreRelated`` The Rover `` By Aphra Behn1445 Words   |  6 Pages Between the classifications of virgin and prostitute lay a void, not a range; one could give the entire freight or nothing. Performed in 1677, Aphra Behn s play, The Rover addresses this twofold standard, which restricted her female companions sexual cravings to the domain of religious community, massage parlor, or home. Set free in the upside down universe of Festival, her characters show the dynamic, entangled amusement required of ladies looking to secure individual satisfaction. TheRead MoreThe Rover by Aphra Behn Essay1202 Words   |  5 Pages In The Rover by Aphra Behn the reader is shown how all a woman could do during the 1600’s in Europe was sell herself through marriage or prostitution through the characters Hellena and Angellica. Both women have different views on love, sex, and marriage. Hellena is a woman who does not want to be controlled by men. It has been determined by her father and brother that she will join a nunnery, which she rejects. 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Aphra recognized this idea and Elin explains in her play how this new identity was reflected in The Feigned Courtesans. The women seek to be rid of their attachments to the patriarchal policies of selling their daughters into slavery to other men for pure