Author
Aphra Behn
1640-1689
Aphra Behn (1640-1689) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Aphra Behn
The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume I
"The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume I" by Aphra Behn is a significant collection of plays written in the late 17th century. This volume features notable works such as "The Rover" (Parts I and II), "The Dutch Lover," and "The Roundheads," which explore themes of love, power, and societal norms during the Restoration period. Behn's portrayal of complex characters in vibrant and often humorous scenarios draws readers into the world of 17th-century England with its intriguing social dynamics. The opening of this collected edition sets the stage for an exploration of Behn's life and works, acknowledging the challenges faced in editing her material due to the lack of accurate biographical information about her. The preface highlights the importance of thorough research to separate fact from fiction regarding Behn's life, ultimately emphasizing her significance as the first English woman to support herself through writing. The introduction further alludes to her unique experiences and influences, including her time in Surinam and her subsequent return to England, laying the groundwork for an understanding of her dramatic voice and the vibrant characters that populate her plays.
The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume V
"The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume V" by Aphra Behn is a collection of literary works written in the late 17th century. This volume features a mix of narratives, including stories of romance, adventure, and social commentary, showcasing Behn's unique voice and skill in drama and prose. Notable titles included within this compendium are "The Black Lady," "Oroonoko," and "Agnes de Castro," each reflecting the complexity of human relationships and the societal norms of her time. The opening of the volume begins with "The Adventure of the Black Lady," introducing the character of Bellamora, who arrives in London seeking her cousin, Madam Brightly. Struggling to find her cousin and losing her belongings in the process, Bellamora encounters a kind but discreet old lady who offers her shelter. As she confides in this lady about her turbulent past, including an unwanted pregnancy and her attempts to escape her uncle's oppressive control, we see glimpses of her innocence mixed with the harsh realities of love and betrayal. The narrative sets the stage for a deeper exploration of women’s roles and challenges in a patriarchal society.
The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume VI
"The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume VI" by Aphra Behn is a collection of literary works, likely compiled in the late 19th century. This volume features various compositions, including "The Lover's Watch," "A Voyage to the Isle of Love," and miscellaneous poems that express themes of love and relationships. Behn's writing often portrays the dynamics of love, drawing upon her own experiences in the courtly context of her time. At the start of "The Lover's Watch," we meet two noble characters, Damon and Iris, who are deeply in love but separated by circumstances. The narrative unfolds with Iris's absences prompting Damon to express his affection through letters filled with longing and poetic sentiments. The unique concept introduced by Iris is the watch she sends him, which symbolizes how he should spend his time in her absence, filled with rules for lovers marked by the hours. Her watch not only serves to keep track of time but also serves as a guide for Damon's actions and thoughts while she is away, ultimately blending themes of love, distance, and desire in an engaging manner.
The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume II
"The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume II" by Aphra Behn is a collection of dramatic works written during the late 17th century. The volume includes various plays, starting with "Abdelazer; or, The Moor's Revenge," which follows the complex web of revenge, love, and political intrigue surrounding the character Abdelazer, a Moorish general entangled in conflict with the Spanish royal family. At the start of "Abdelazer," the reader is introduced to a dramatic tension that centers on themes of power, ambition, and betrayal. The aging Spanish King has taken in Abdelazer, the orphaned Moorish prince, and appointed him as a general. However, Abdelazer's desire for revenge—a consequence of past injustices—drives him into an affair with the lustful Queen Isabella, leading to a conspiracy to kill the King. The opening intricately weaves dialogue showcasing Abdelazer's internal struggles and motivations as he navigates the treacherous court environment filled with plots and counterplots among characters like Prince Philip and Cardinal Mendozo. The stage is set for a tragic tale that blends elements of romance and betrayal, hinting at the violent and pivotal choices to come.
Love-Letters Between a Nobleman and His Sister
"Love-Letters Between a Nobleman and His Sister" by Aphra Behn is a three-volume novel published between 1684-1687. This pioneering epistolary work follows the scandalous affair between Philander and his sister-in-law Silvia as they flee their families in disgrace. Loosely based on a real political scandal involving the Monmouth Rebellion, the novel traces their relationship through passionate letters, betrayals, and increasingly complex romantic entanglements across Europe. As their love deteriorates, both become enmeshed in schemes involving disguises, rival suitors, and political intrigue.
The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume IV
"The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume IV" by Aphra Behn is a collection of comedic plays written in the late 17th century. This volume features notable works such as "Sir Patient Fancy," "The Amorous Prince," "The Widow Ranter," and "The Younger Brother," each exploring themes of love, deception, and social commentary through engaging character dynamics. The collection showcases Behn's perspectives as one of the first professional female playwrights, providing a glimpse into the complexities of human relationships in her time. The opening portion introduces "Sir Patient Fancy," focusing on Sir Patient, a wealthy but hypochondriacal alderman, who has taken a much younger wife, Lucia. Despite his affectionate demeanor, Lucia is secretly in love with another man, Charles Wittmore. The comedic tension unfolds through misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and playful deception as various characters navigate romantic entanglements and societal constraints. As Sir Patient becomes increasingly convinced of his own ailments, his fears and jealousy prevent him from noticing the true dynamics at play, setting the stage for humorous conflicts and resolutions as the plot develops.
The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume III
"The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume III" by Aphra Behn is a collection of comedic plays written during the late 17th century, a time when theatre was blossoming in England. This particular volume includes works such as "The Town-Fop" which explores themes of love, deception, and social mores. It mostly revolves around characters entangled in romantic pursuits, specifically Sir Timothy Tawdrey, who is foolishly contracted to marry the lovely Celinda, who secretly loves Bellmour, adding further complications to their romantic entanglements. The beginning of "The Town-Fop" introduces us to Sir Timothy Tawdrey, a vain knight determined to marry Celinda for her wealth, despite her affections for Bellmour. We learn that Sir Timothy is perceived as a ridiculous coxcomb, and he expresses disdain for serious courtship, eager instead to enjoy the superficial pleasures of London life. Meanwhile, Celinda yearns for Bellmour, escalating the tension as she tries to navigate her feelings while Sir Timothy clumsily attempts to woo her. This setup creates an entertaining atmosphere filled with misunderstandings, friendships, and romantic conflicts, drawing readers into a comedic tale of love and social satire.