Oroonoko, The Rover and Other Works (Penguin Classics)

The first professional woman of literature was the incomparable Aphra Behn. The 17th century rarely saw such distinctive prose and natural storytelling as that demonstrated by Behn. Known for her sharp wit and erotic storytelling, Behn was the first English playwright to set a play in the American colonies. Professor Janet Todd reveals Behn’s brilliance to the world with Oroonoko, The Rover and Other Works. Two short novels, several plays and many poems make up the bulk of this Penguin Classics publication. Todd puts the author’s successes in historical perspective with her insightful introduction. 385 pages.