Oroonoko: Or, The Royal Slave, a True History: Analysis of Major Characters
"Oroonoko: Or, The Royal Slave, a True History" is a complex narrative that delves into the themes of love, betrayal, and the brutality of slavery through the experiences of its titular character, Oroonoko. Oroonoko, a prince from Coromantien, is depicted as a valiant and noble figure, initially celebrated for his military prowess and deep love for Imoinda, a woman he passionately adores. The story unfolds as Imoinda is taken by Oroonoko's grandfather, the king, leading to their tragic entanglement in the horrors of slavery after both are captured by the English and transported to Suriname.
The narrative also features Aboan, Oroonoko's loyal friend, as well as the contrasting figures of a benevolent slaveholder who cares for Oroonoko during his suffering, and a duplicitous governor who betrays him despite promises of safety. The characters navigate a harsh reality marked by conflict and profound loss. Ultimately, Oroonoko's love for Imoinda leads to a heartbreaking decision that underscores the grim realities of their situation. This work is not only a reflection on the individual characters but also serves as a critique of colonialism and the dehumanizing effects of slavery, offering a poignant exploration of human dignity against overwhelming adversity.
Oroonoko: Or, The Royal Slave, a True History: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Aphra Behn
First published: c. 1678
Genre: Novel
Locale: Africa and Suriname
Plot: Didactic
Time: Seventeenth century
Oroonoko (oh-rew-NOH-koh), a Prince of Coromantien, Africa. At seventeen, he is the successful general of his country's army. In love with Imoinda, he is furious when his king, also his grandfather, takes her into his harem. Oroonoko takes Imoinda as a lover. Both he and the girl are later enslaved by the English and taken to Suriname. They try to escape. When captured, Oroonoko is savagely beaten. Caught again while attempting to escape, he is publicly executed in a brutal manner. To save Imoinda from such a fate, he has killed her with her blessing.
Aboan (ah-BOH-ahn), Oroonoko's faithful companion and friend. Along with Oroonoko, he is enslaved while visiting a supposedly friendly British ship.
Imoinda (ee-moh-EEN-dah), the beloved of Oroonoko. She is sold into slavery by the king of Coromantien after Oroonoko became her lover. Reunited with Oroonoko in Suriname, she becomes pregnant by him. To save her from ravishment and a shameful death, Oroonoko cuts off her head.
The king, Oroonoko's grandfather, ruler of Coromantien. He is more than a hundred years old, but he wants Imoinda for his harem and treacherously takes her from Oroonoko.
A slaveholder, Oroonoko's owner and friend, who renames him Caesar. A kind man, he nurses Oroonoko when he is brutally beaten by his captors after attempting to escape.
The governor, a brutal, treacherous man who on two occasions promises Oroonoko immunity if he will surrender, only to betray him each time and have him beaten.