Sketch the Character of Oroonoko
Oroonoko is a notable literary work by Aphra Behn. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Oroonoko.
Answer
Sketch the character of Oroonoko.
Or, Attempt a character study of ‘Oroonoko.’
Or, Give an account of the traits of the character of the Prince of Africa.
Oroonoko is the central character in the novel “Oroonoko” (1688) by Aphra Behn (1640-1689). The novel explores the harsh realities of colonialism, slavery, and the abuse of power. Oroonoko is a young prince and a central figure in the narrative. We can point out some key character traits of our hero, Oroonoko.
Model of an Epic Hero: Oroonoko was born noble and had royal titles. Oroonoko’s courage, battle skills, and strong moral code resemble those of a hero in epic literary traditions. He is a brave and a great leader. He’s an African general beloved by his people. However, he is betrayed and sold into slavery. He maintains his honour as a slave in Surinam and organizes a slave revolt to save his fellow slaves. By presenting a slave as her hero, Behn agrees those without “titles” of social status have more opportunities to prove their courage. Oroonoko says,
It is not titles that make men brave or good or birth that bestows courage.
Impressive Hero with a Tragic Flaw: Oroonoko is an African general beloved by his people. He also retains his dignity in slavery. White settlers are impressed by Oroonoko’s Western education, innate intelligence, and diplomacy, but Oroonoko’s flaw is easily traceable. Oroonoko says,
The man of no honor suffers… the scorn and contempt of the honester world.
Oroonoko’s flaw is trusting the people around him and believing everyone is as honest as he is. This quote sums up his worldview. He believes anyone who breaks an oath suffers ‘‘scorn and contempt.” However, on the Suriname plantation, those who break oaths remain in positions of power.
Inborn Leadership Quality: Oroonoko speaks of honesty in slavery. He believes that simply buying and selling people is morally and politically unjust. Oroonoko says this to his fellow slaves:
We are bought
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