Aphra Behn’s The Rover

 1) Angellica Bianca, a high class courtesan in the play, The Rover by John Fletcher, astutely observes similarities between the two professions - marriage and prostitution. They both end up being negotiation of dowry, a woman being merchandised with money as security. "Love should be free"; she's disappointed that one has to sacrifice that for financial stability, especially that of women. Women in marriage "sell" themselves to wealthy suitors, like courtesans selling their bodies, reducing the relationship to a transaction in her eyes.

This comparison is important because it reveals how limited the options were for women in the 17th century. Marriage, like prostitution, often left women little control over their lives. It is poignant when Angellica comes from such a history and has always aspired to finding real love; Willmore has, of course, cheated her like he would have any commodity, and it confirms to her that, indeed, the issue of money comes in first in most marriages or relationships.

Do I agree? To some extent, yes. Angellica's argument is valid, especially in the context of the time, where women's lives were heavily dictated by financial needs and social pressures. Marriages were frequently arranged to secure wealth, alliances, or status, rather than for love. However, there are differences. While prostitution is a direct exchange of money for physical pleasure, marriage ideally involves emotional connection and lifelong partnership, though not always. Angellica's cynical view brings out the reality in a patriarchal society in which women's futures are shaped by financial dependence.

2) Virginia Woolf's Tribute to Aphra Behn

In A Room of One's Own, Virginia Woolf recognizes Aphra Behn as a pioneering figure for women writers. Woolf stresses that Behn's success in the literary world gave women the right to express themselves and claim a voice in a male-dominated space. This is particularly evident in The Rover through its strong, outspoken female characters who challenge societal norms and assert their independence.

Hellena and Angellica are prime examples of Behn's revolutionary approach. Hellena, destined for a convent, rebels against the idea of living a life of confinement and instead pursues her own desires. She takes control of her fate by disguising herself and openly seeking a romantic relationship with Willmore. Her witty banter and refusal to conform to expectations showcase Behn's belief in women's right to choose their own paths. Angellica, on the other hand, represents the battle between love and financial survival. Her character portrays the brutal realities women had to face, yet she, too, is not afraid to voice her opinion and stand up for her dignity.

I completely agree with Woolf's statement. Behn's act of writing plays, especially when women were discouraged from pursuing careers, was a feat in itself. Her success demonstrated that women were not only able to take part but also flourish in the literary sphere. Behn's writings, such as The Rover, spoke of issues regarding gender, power, and freedom and inspired generations of female writers. It may have taken much longer for women to gain the confidence and recognition they deserved in literature if not for her pioneering efforts.

3) Which Female Character Embodies Aphra Behn?

Hellena is the character in The Rover who best encapsulates Aphra Behn. As in Behn, Hellena is vivacious, defiant, and hell-bent on doing things as she likes them. This young woman, destined for the nunnery, proudly rejects that fate, pronouncing her desire to see love and adventure. Boldness characterizes Behn's defiance of societal strictures as well. Behn, one of the first women to earn a living through writing, broke social norms by entering the male-dominated world of literature.

Hellena's wits and ability to control situations to her favor is a reflection of Behn's wit and resourcefulness. Hellena often disguises herself and uses her charm to outwit those around her, especially in the case of Willmore. Behn had to navigate a world where women's voices were often silenced, and so she used her talent and determination to make a name for herself.

Angellica Bianca can also be interpreted as another side of Behn's life. As a courtesan, Angellica is both powerful and vulnerable, living in a world where her value is determined by her beauty and wealth. This duality may reflect Behn's own struggles as a woman trying to assert her independence in a patriarchal society. But Hellena's free spirit and inability to accept boundaries are more characteristic of Behn's contribution to literature as a pioneering female writer who fought for the freedom of women to speak.

In conclusion, Hellena's courage, wit, and pursuit of personal freedom make her the character who best embodies Aphra Behn's spirit and beliefs. The life and work of Behn were all about breaking barriers, and through Hellena, she celebrates the idea of women taking control of their destinies.