Racism and Idealization in Aphra Behn's Oroonoko

The Significance of Aphra Behn's Oroonoko

The novel Oroonoko, written by Aphra Behn (1640–1689), stands as one of the most significant literary works of the 17th century. Behn chronicles the story of Oroonoko, a prince of Coramantien, who was highly esteemed in Africa before being enslaved after the capture of his beloved, Imoinda. Behn was a vocal critic of slavery and played a pivotal role in the development of the English novel. As one of the first anti-slavery narratives, the text critiques the cruelty of white colonizers; however, it simultaneously reflects the pervasive racial prejudices of the era. This essay examines the inherent contradictions in Behn's writing, where her anti-slavery stance is complicated by the racist tropes of her time.

Literary Idealization and Racial Bias

Throughout the narrative, Behn employs the literary technique of idealization to elevate her protagonist. Yet, this idealization is deeply rooted in the racial biases of the 17th century. Evidence of this can be found in the following passage:

"His nose was rising and Roman, instead of African and flat." (Behn 8)

This description effectively strips Oroonoko of his African identity, projecting the features of a white European onto him. By framing his beauty through a Eurocentric lens, Behn suggests that for a black man to be considered heroic or attractive, he must possess white physical characteristics. This reveals the deep-seated racism prevalent in European society at the time.

The Paradox of the "White God"

Behn further exaggerates Oroonoko's traits to elevate him to a heroic, almost divine status. She writes:

• "There was no one Grace wanting, that bears the Standard of true Beauty..."
• "...all fine Wit is confined to the white Men, especially to those of Christendom." (Behn 8)

In these passages, the reader observes a paradox: Oroonoko is portrayed as perfect, yet he is essentially treated as a "white god" trapped in black skin. Behn implies that true virtue and intellect are exclusive to white, Christian men, thereby undermining her own anti-slavery message by reinforcing the racial hierarchies of her century.