Oroonoko was the book I read for the most recent Classics Club Spin.
There are a few issues with Oroonoko, written in 1688, that might make it difficult for modern audiences. One is its acceptance of slavery (although the novel is viewed as an anti-slavery work), which in the 17th century was common. The other is its graphic violence, albeit off-stage, that has caused it to vary in popularity over time. (Apparently, even the publishers of the edition I read disagree about that, because the introduction says it was Behn’s most popular work, while the cover says it was not popular because of its violence.)
Oroonoko has been considered a novella rather than a biography, because there is no proof that such a man as Oroonoko existed. However, Behn writes the story in first person as herself, and she is known to have traveled to Suriname, where it is set, shortly before the country was ceded to the Dutch. So, you have to wonder.
Oroonoko is the prince of Coramantien, an area of present-day Ghana, the grandson of the king and a great warrior. He falls in love with a beautiful girl named Imoinda, and she becomes his betrothed. However, his grandfather sends her the veil, which means she is to join his harem, even though because of her betrothal that is a break in custom. Oroonoko must accept this or die, so he accepts it with the thought that the king cannot live long. However, the king regrets his actions and sees no way to recover the situation except if Imoinda was dead. He is unable to have her killed, though, so he sells her into slavery and tells Oroonoko she is dead.
Next, an English slave trader whom Oroonoko has sold slaves to invites him for a party. When he and his men have passed out from drink, the trader enslaves them and puts them on a ship for Suriname. It is when Oroonoko arrives there that he meets Behn and her traveling companions and they learn his tale and witness the rest of the action.
Oroonoko might be the first anti-slavery novel, although it is subtle about it, showing some of its abuses while not really commenting on the institution. Behn reveals the dastardly behavior of a series of Europeans, either slavers or owners, and contrasts it with the image she builds up of a handsome, brave, forthright black hero and his beautiful and virtuous lady. The novel was interesting, but I found what happened to Imoinda through Oroonoko’s hands distressing and the reflection of a type of thinking I did not find admirable—and the ending was just plain gruesome.
whatmeread 
I haven’t read anything by Behn but I have her complete works on my KIndle so intend to get around to her sometime, the fact that this is a novella is attracting me.
I haven’t even heard of this author or this book. Yea to the Classics Club to enlighten all of us who are hiding in the dark. This one sounds quite interesting and I love that name. Oroonoko. Might make a nice pet name…
I’ve also completed my spin. Was lovely!
Elza Reads
Great! Aphra Behn was a really successful woman writer of the 17th century. I believe most of what she wrote was plays, and I think she specialized in bawdy comedies. This is her only novel, I think.
I have never heard of this book or author. Even if the novel isn’t the best, it’s interesting to read about!
I saw a very bawdy play by her when I lived in Houston years ago. Apparently, she was very popular in her time, I think the first woman to support herself by writing.