Aphra Behn
Biography
Aphra Behn (c. 1640 – 1689) was a pioneering English playwright, poet, translator, and novelist of the Restoration era. She is widely considered the first professional female writer in English literature, earning her living solely through her pen. Her early life is somewhat mysterious; she is believed to have spent time in the Dutch colony of Suriname, an experience that later informed her famous novel *Oroonoko*. Before her literary career, she worked as a spy for King Charles II in Antwerp, reportedly under the codename 'Astrea,' leading to financial difficulties upon her return to England. Her literary output was prolific, encompassing over 19 plays, numerous poems, and several prose works. Behn's work often challenged societal norms, particularly regarding women's roles, marriage, and sexual freedom, making her a controversial figure in her time but a celebrated one in retrospect for her trailblazing efforts.
Selected Thoughts
«Variety is the soul of pleasure.»
«Money speaks sense in a language all nations understand.»
«I am resolved to grow fat, and look young till forty, and then grow emaciated and die of a consumption.»
Writing Style
Aphra Behn's writing style is characterized by its wit, sharp social commentary, and a blend of romanticism and satire typical of the Restoration period. She often employed intricate plots, lively dialogue, and a bold, often provocative, approach to themes of love, desire, and social conventions. Her prose is direct and engaging, while her poetry displays a lyrical quality. She was unafraid to challenge patriarchal norms and explore controversial subjects, making her work both entertaining and thought-provoking.