The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume III

Name: The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume III
Author: Aphra Behn

By Aphra Behn

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British Literature Plays/Films/Dramas

About This Book

A curated set of dramatic pieces combines bawdy comedy, satirical wit, and a touch of the fantastical, focusing on romantic entanglements, arranged marriages, and social posturing. The plays stage thwarted lovers, foppish suitors, duels of honor, mistaken identities, disguise and cross-dressing, and scenes of public spectacle that reveal hypocrisy and contested authority in private relationships. Comic violence and farce alternate with sharper scenes of emotional distress and coercion as guardianship and fortune shape marital outcomes, while one piece indulges in celestial eccentricity. Brief editorial notes accompany the texts to clarify variants and historical references.

About the Author

Aphra Behn

Aphra Behn (1640-1689) was a pioneering English playwright, poet, and novelist, often regarded as one of the first professional female writers in the English language. Known for her bold exploration of themes such as love, gender, and politics, Behn's works often challenged the societal norms of her time. Her notable novel, "Love-Letters Between a Nobleman and His Sister," showcases her innovative narrative style and complex characterizations. Throughout her career, she produced a diverse body of work, including plays and poetry, which contributed significantly to the development of the English literary tradition.