Aphra Behn's The Rover has been praised for its witty dialogue, vibrant characters, and exploration of gender and social norms. Its engagement with issues of liberty and desire sparks thoughtful discourse, although some critics note that its complex subplots can dilute the main narrative. Overall, it's celebrated for its bold perspectives and pioneering female authorship.

Readers who enjoy The Rover by Aphra Behn are typically interested in Restoration literature, feminist perspectives, and witty, character-driven plots. Fans of Shakespeare's comedies or Fielding’s Tom Jones may find this play captivating, as it offers a similar blend of romance, intrigue, and social commentary.

During the Carnival in 1650s Naples, English captain Willmore, the titular rover, seeks romantic escapades with his exiled cavalier friends. Willmore becomes entangled in the love struggles of Florinda, who loves Belvile, and her sister Hellena, who wishes to avoid a nunnery. Disguises, mistaken identities, and chaotic romantic entanglements ensue, culminating in multiple marriages. The Rover contains attempted sexual assaults and themes related to sexual violence.

Humorous / Adventurous / Romantic / Playful / Mysterious

- Aphra Behn was one of the first English women to earn a living by writing, and her play The Rover played a significant role in establishing her as a pioneering female playwright in the Restoration period.
- The Rover was first performed by the Duke's Company in 1677 and quickly became one of the most popular comedies of its time, with its lively exploration of themes like love, gender, and social politics.
- The play is set in Naples during the Carnival, a backdrop that allows characters to explore and challenge societal norms under the guise of masks and mistaken identities, making it a staple example of Restoration comedy's embrace of wit and sensuality.

**Willmore**  
An English Cavalier and sea captain who is reckless and impulsive, enjoying his two-day shore leave during Carnival with the aim to seduce as many women as possible. His charm and charisma often land him in complex situations that propel the play’s events.

**Hellena**  
A young Spanish noblewoman, fiery and determined, who rebels against her family's plan to send her to a convent. During the Carnival, she seeks to explore love and freedom, crossing paths with Willmore in the process.

**Florinda**  
Hellena's sister, a virtuous and obedient young noblewoman who begins to challenge her family's plans for her future. Caught in a love story marked by her desire for a romantic and chaste union.

**Don Pedro**  
The authoritative brother to Hellena and Florinda, acting as the temporary family patriarch. He arranges marriages for his sisters with little regard for their desires, embodying the era's patriarchal values.

**Belvile**  
An exiled English Cavalier and soldier for hire, deeply in love with Florinda. Known for his noble character and unwavering devotion, which contrasts with the less stable qualities of other Cavaliers.

**Ned Blunt**  
A naive and simple Englishman not aligned with the Cavaliers, known for being easily duped and mocked. His unsophisticated nature contrasts with the cunning and rakish behavior of the other men.

**Angellica Bianca**  
A renowned Venetian courtesan, living a life of financial independence due to her high-demand services. Her encounter with Willmore introduces complications to her usually controlled and detached existence.

Aphra Behn

Adult

Play

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The Rover reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The Rover | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Rover and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Rover

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Rover?

Reading Age

Book Details