“Oroonoko” is a novella written by Aphra Behn that was first published in 1688. The novella is a work of fiction that tells the story of an African prince, Oroonoko, who is captured and enslaved by the British. The narrative style of “Oroonoko” is complex and multifaceted, incorporating elements of romance, tragedy, and political commentary. In this article, we will examine the narrative style of “Oroonoko” and explore how it contributes to the overall impact of the novella.
Narrative Style of “Oroonoko”:
One of the most distinctive features of the narrative style of “Oroonoko” is its use of multiple narrators. The novella is framed as a memoir written by an unnamed female narrator who claims to have witnessed the events of the story firsthand. However, the narrator's account is interspersed with the first-person narratives of Oroonoko and other characters, giving the reader access to multiple perspectives on the events of the story.
You Can also Read: Anti-colonialismin Arpha Behn’s “Oroonoko”.
This use of multiple narrators serves several purposes. First, it allows Behn to explore the complex motivations and emotions of her characters in a more nuanced way. By giving the reader access to the inner thoughts and feelings of Oroonoko and the other characters, Behn is able to create a more complex and nuanced portrayal of their experiences.
Second, the use of multiple narrators allows Behn to comment on the political and social issues of her time. Through the various perspectives presented in the novella, Behn is able to explore issues of race, gender, and power, and to critique the systems of oppression that underlie them.
Another notable aspect of the narrative style of “Oroonoko” is its use of vivid and detailed descriptions. Behn's prose is rich and evocative, and she uses detailed descriptions of people, places, and events to create a vivid and immersive world for the reader. This attention to detail helps to create a sense of realism and authenticity, making the events of the story feels more immediate and impactful.
You Can also Read: Behn’s attitude towards slavery as expressed in “Oroonoko”.
At the same time, Behn's descriptions also serve to highlight the exoticism and otherness of the African characters in the novella. The descriptions of Oroonoko and his people are often romanticized and idealized, portraying them as noble savages who are inherently good and virtuous. This portrayal reflects the colonial attitudes of Behn's time, which viewed non-European cultures as exotic and primitive.
In addition to its use of multiple narrators and vivid descriptions, the narrative style of “Oroonoko” is also notable for its use of symbolism and allegory. Throughout the novella, Behn uses various symbols and allegories to comment on the themes and issues of the story. For example, the image of the "golden chain" that Oroonoko wears around his neck serves as a symbol of his captivity and enslavement, while the image of the "black veil" that Imoinda wears symbolizes her status as a slave.
These symbols and allegories help to deepen the meaning and impact of the novella, allowing Behn to explore complex themes and ideas in a more nuanced and layered way.
Overall, the narrative style of “Oroonoko” is complex and multifaceted, incorporating multiple narrators, vivid descriptions, and symbolism and allegory. Through these various techniques, Behn is able to create a rich and immersive world for the reader, while also exploring complex themes and issues related to race, gender, and power. The novella remains a powerful and impactful work of literature, and its narrative style continues to captivate and engage readers today.
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