Why Does Oroonoko Take up Arms Again?
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
Why does Oroonoko take up arms again?
Aphra Behn’s (1640-1689) novella “Oroonoko” (1688) tells the sad story of an African prince named Oroonoko. He is captured and sold as a slave in Suriname. At first, Oroonoko tries to live peacefully there. But later, he decides to take up arms and fight again for freedom.
Betrayal: Oroonoko is a noble prince in Africa. He is a man of bravery and honor. However, he is betrayed by an English ship captain. The English captain captured him and sold him as a slave to Suriname. In Suriname, Oroonoko behaves like a good man. Everyone respects him for his honesty and bravery. Oroonoko thinks the white colonists will be honest too, like him. He believes:
“The man of no honor suffers…”
However, the white colonists are not honest at all. They promise Oroonoko freedom but do not give it. This betrayal makes Oroonoko very sad and angry. He realizes that the white men will never keep their promises.
Desire for Freedom and Justice: Oroonoko sees the cruel and harsh life of the slaves. He feels responsible as a leader to help them. He wants to free himself and his fellow slaves. He says to the slaves:
“My dear friends and fellow-sufferers, should we be slaves to an unknown people?”
These words show that Oroonoko wants to fight against injustice. He wants to free his wife Imoinda, fellow slaves, and himself from the cruel life of slavery. His royal blood and warrior spirit give him the courage to plan a rebellion, and he takes up arms again.
In short, Oroonoko takes up arms again because he wants freedom, justice, and dignity. He cannot accept the betrayal and the cruel slavery system. His fight shows his courage and sense of honour.