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The Male Protagonist Willmore in Aphra Behns The Rover

June 07, 2025Literature3318
The Male Protagonist Willmore in Aphra Behns The Rover Introduction to

The Male Protagonist Willmore in Aphra Behn's The Rover

Introduction to Aphra Behn

Aphra Behn, born in 1640 and died in 1689, was an English playwright, poet, and novelist. She is considered the first woman to earn a living solely through her writings. With a vivid and influential career, Behn established herself as a leading figure of the Restoration period in England, a time marked by the return of the king following the Interregnum.

The Character of Willmore in The Rover

Among Behn's most famous works is the play 'The Rover,' which features the enigmatic and controversial character Willmore. Willmore is thought to be based on the real-life libertine John Wilmot, the 2nd Earl of Rochester, known for his daring and outrageous behavior. In the play, Willmore is a roving, libertine, and wit who delights in seducing his way through a series of love affairs with various character types, always leaving his conquests disappointed after he extracts his desired favors from them.

Willmore's Role in the Plot

Willmore's character is the primary driving force of the plot. His endless pursuit of pleasure and seduction forms the thematic and narrative core of the play. The plot revolves around his encounters with various female characters, including young virtuous women and married women trapped in unhappy marriages. Willmore's actions cause much disruption and laughter throughout the play, as he exhibits traits of selfishness, betrayal, and a lack of true emotional commitment.

Aphra Behn and John Wilmot

Aphra Behn had personal connections to John Wilmot, the Earl of Rochester. She would have known him well since he was a prominent figure in Restoration London's literary and social scenes. His reputation for being a notorious libertine and his connections to the court and the king would have generated a great deal of interest and possibly inspired Behn to base her character Willmore on him. However, Willmore in the play is not merely an impersonation of John Wilmot but a more exaggerated and flamboyant version of his character.

Analysis and Impact

The character of Willmore is a complex mix of admiration and criticism. His wit and charm are indeed appealing, but his immorality and lack of genuine affection make him a character who is both entertaining and morally questionable. His wild adventures and love affairs are a commentary on the societal norms and expectations of the time, particularly for men. Behn's portrayal of Willmore can be seen as a critique of the excessive freedom and libertinism that were prevalent in Restoration England.

Influence on Literature and Culture

Aphra Behn's influence on both women authors and the literary world cannot be understated. Her brave and pioneering stance in the male-dominated world of Restoration literature opened doors for future generations of female writers. Virginia Woolf once celebrated this legacy, stating that every woman author should "kneel and say a prayer" at the grave of Aphra Behn. This statement reflects the profound impact and respect Behn has earned through her contributions to literature.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the character of Willmore in 'The Rover' by Aphra Behn is a fascinating and multifaceted portrayal. Based on the real-life libertine John Wilmot, the character reflects the time and culture of the Restoration period while offering a critique of the societal norms. Aphra Behn's writing is a testament to her resilience, wit, and forward-thinking spirit, which continue to inspire writers and readers today.