Oroonoko : Quotations
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.
Quotations
“He was adorned with a native beauty, so transcending all those of his gloomy race, that he struck an awe and reverence even into those that knew not his quality.”
Exp: Behn describes Oroonoko’s extraordinary appearance, which impressed everyone regardless of his being African or royal.
“She was female to the noble male; the beautiful black Venus to our young Mars; as charming in her person as he, and of delicate virtues.”
Exp: Imoinda is described as the perfect female counterpart to Oroonoko. Her beauty and virtues are highlighted as equals to his bravery.
“I do not pretend, in giving you the history of this Royal Slave, to entertain my reader with adventures of a feigned hero…”
Exp: Aphra Behn assures the reader that this is a true story, not an invented tale.
“His nose was rising and Roman, instead of African and flat. His mouth the finest shaped that could be seen; …. lips which are so natural to the rest of the negroes.”
Exp: Behn presents Oroonoko’s physical features as exceptional even among his own race. It suggests he carries a universal beauty.
“She was touched with what he said, and returned it all in such answers as went to his very heart, with a pleasure unknown before.”
Exp: This is the moment Imoinda and Oroonoko truly fall in love, sharing their feelings honestly.
“What, O my friends!…I would venture through any hazard to free her: but here, in the arms of a feeble old man…avail me nothing.”
Exp: Oroonoko expresses deep frustration that he cannot rescue Imoinda from the king, even with all his strength.
“He was pretty tall, but of a shape the most exact that can be fancied…”
Exp: Behn describes Oroonoko as the perfect man in physical form.
“Caesar(Oroonoko) swore he disdained the empire of the world, while he could behold his Imoinda; and she despised grandeur and pomp…when she could gaze on Oroonoko.”
Exp: Both lovers place each other above all riches or power in the world.
“Thus died this great man, worthy of a better fate,.”
Exp:In the novel’s ending, Behn honors Oroonoko’s tragic fate and lasting dignity.