Oroonoko by Aphra Behn
Short Essay
Introduction:
Oroonoko is a prose work written by Aphra Behn in 1688. The story is about Oroonoko, an African prince who is betrayed and sold into slavery. It shows themes of love, honour, betrayal, and slavery. The narrator says that she personally met Oroonoko in Suriname.
Oroonoko’s Love and Separation:
Oroonoko was a brave prince of Coramantien and a successful young general. He fell in love with Imoinda, the daughter of his foster father. They loved each other deeply and secretly married. However, Oroonoko’s grandfather, the old King, also desired Imoinda. He forced her to become his concubine and kept her in the palace. Later, when the King discovered that Oroonoko still met Imoinda secretly, he sold her into slavery and falsely told Oroonoko that she was dead.
Betrayal and Slavery:
An English Sea captain pretended to be Oroonoko’s friend but betrayed him and sold him into slavery in Suriname. There Oroonoko was renamed Caesar. He was reunited with Imoinda, who was now called Clemene. Though treated respectfully, Oroonoko wanted freedom. He led a slave rebellion, but most slaves abandoned him. Byam, the Deputy Governor, promised freedom but betrayed him cruelly.
Tragic End:
To save Imoinda and their unborn child from slavery, Oroonoko killed them with her permission. Afterwards, he became weak with grief and failed to take revenge. Finally, he was captured and brutally executed without showing fear or pain.
Conclusion:
The novel presents Oroonoko as a noble, brave, and honourable man who suffers because of betrayal and slavery. The story also shows the cruelty of colonialism and the tragic effects of slavery on human life.