Roxana, The Fortunate Mistress

The narrative follows a woman's journey through moral compromise as she trades her virtue for survival and eventual fame. As the mistress of wealthy men, she reflects on her life with a critical eye, revealing the costs of her choices and the seductive allure of wealth and status. Unlike other characters in Defoe's works, she does not ultimately overcome her flaws. This autobiography explores themes of ambition, regret, and the complexities of female agency, showcasing both a captivating storyteller and a compelling tale.