Aphra Behn 
Oroonoko; or, The Royal Slave 
Exploring themes of slavery, race, and colonialism in the 17th century

Aphra Behn’s ‘Oroonoko; or, The Royal Slave’ is a captivating novel that explores themes of slavery, race, and colonialism. Set in the 17th century, the book follows the story of Oroonoko, a royal African prince who is betrayed, enslaved, and ultimately faces a tragic fate. Behn’s writing style is both eloquent and thought-provoking, with vivid descriptions that transport the reader to the world of the protagonist. The novel’s depiction of injustice and the clash of cultures is both compelling and insightful, making it a significant work of literature from the period. Behn’s use of narrative techniques and character development adds depth to the story, engaging readers with its emotional impact and moral complexity. As one of the earliest English novels to address slavery and colonization, ‘Oroonoko’ remains a powerful and important work in the canon of English literature.