The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume I

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

21339

Title

The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume I

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This volume presents the collected dramatic works of Aphra Behn, the first Englishwoman to earn a living by writing. Featuring her famous tragi-comedies *The Rover* and *The Dutch Lover*, the collection explores themes of love, politics, and colonial life with wit and realism. Ideal for readers of Restoration drama seeking insight into 17th-century society.

Summary up to 500 words

Edited by Montague Summers, this volume of Aphra Behn's works presents a collection of her major plays, including *The Rover* (Parts I and II), *The Dutch Lover*, and *The Round-Heads*. The text is introduced by a memoir that attempts to unravel the mysterious life of its author, detailing her time in Surinam and her service as a political agent in Holland. The plays themselves are set in vibrant locations such as Naples and Spain, centering on the character of Angelica Bianca, a courtesan who, despite being sold by her brother, maintains a complex web of relationships with various lovers. Characters like Willmore and Belvile navigate a world defined by disguise, duels, and romantic intrigue. The narrative masterfully balances broad humor with serious commentary on gender, power, and the commodification of women. Behn's vivid descriptions of colonial settings and her sharp social satire offer a unique window into the Restoration era. These works are significant for understanding the evolution of English drama and the author's enduring legacy. The memoir clarifies that Behn was the first Englishwoman to earn her livelihood solely through authorship. It addresses the historical confusion surrounding her biography, noting that earlier accounts often contained romanticized fictions, such as a voyage to Surinam or a Dutch husband, which modern scholarship has sought to correct. The plays reveal a world where women of the stage are treated as commodities, yet possess wit and agency that challenge the men around them. Through the eyes of characters like the 'little Gipsy' and the ambitious Angelica, Behn critiques the societal structures that force women into roles of economic necessity while exploring the dangers and freedoms of the Restoration court. The collection stands as a testament to Behn's dramatic genius, capturing the licentious yet intellectually stimulating atmosphere of her time.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Classics
• Drama