The Politics of Rape

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Exploring the intersection of sexual violence and political discourse, this study analyzes how Restoration-era playwrights and propagandists depicted rape to comment on British political turmoil. It traces the evolution of rape representations from Civil War propaganda to the Restoration, highlighting recurring archetypes like the demonic Irishman and the debauched Cavalier. By examining both prominent and obscure plays, the work reveals how these portrayals reflect and influence the socio-political landscape, providing a fresh perspective on the implications of theatrical sexual violence.