Date of Award
1994
Document Type
Thesis
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
October 2026
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Anderson, David R.
Abstract
In Aphra Behn's comedies, disreputable women rebel against patriarchal authority by refusing to conform to conventional images of femininity. Because they believe in self-determination, they often come into conflict with the men who attempt to impose their will on them. They also come into conflict with the characters in the play who idealize love, because they give more importance to practical matters. Although they are criticized within the plays, Behn portrays them as sympathetic because they often help other characters by objecting to forced marriage. They are Behn's most aggressive and assertive female characters, and thus use patriarchy to their own advantage, often to obtain wealth. Disreputable female characters allow Behn to discuss issues of money, class, and sex.
Extent
60 p.
Recommended Citation
Hoyos, Adris E., "Adulterous wives, obstreperous widows, disdainful daughters and courtesans: Disreputable women in Aphra Behn's comedies" (1994). Electronic Theses and Dissertations 1990 - 1999. 539.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general_4/539
Identifier
FADT15033
Comments
Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Thesis (M.A.)--Florida Atlantic University, 1994.|Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters