A Royal Slave as Colonial Criticism in Aphra Behns "Oroonoko"

Set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Slave Trade, the narrative explores the life of Oroonoko, a noble prince who is tragically enslaved and transported to Surinam. Written by Aphra Behn shortly before her death, the work intricately weaves genres like travel narrative and romance while delivering a poignant social critique of colonialism and slavery. Behn's portrayal of Oroonoko's plight highlights themes of honor, dignity, and the brutal realities of the slave experience during the 17th century.