From Spy to Writer
In 1666, Aphra Behn, known as Agent 160, was sent to the Netherlands as a spy for King Charles II. Her mission was to recruit a soldier named William Scot, but she quickly ran out of funds. Unable to secure more money from the government, she returned to England in financial distress.
Turning to the Stage
Facing debtors’ prison, Behn turned to writing to support herself. She became one of the first English women to make a living from her pen. Her debut play, The Forc’d Marriage (1670), was a hit, featuring her signature mix of humor and complex characters. Her works often explored themes of love, politics, and gender dynamics.
A Literary Legacy
Behn’s most famous work, Oroonoko, tells the story of an enslaved African prince, based on her experiences in Surinam. Though controversial, it brought her recognition and is considered one of the earliest English novels advocating against slavery.
A Pioneering Woman
Despite facing criticism for her candid treatment of sex and politics, Behn’s success paved the way for future female writers. Her influence was acknowledged by Virginia Woolf, who noted that Behn “earned women the right to speak their minds“.
The Playwright Who Was a Spy
From Spy to Writer
In 1666, Aphra Behn, known as Agent 160, was sent to the Netherlands as a spy for King Charles II. Her mission was to recruit a soldier named William Scot, but she quickly ran out of funds. Unable to secure more money from the… pic.twitter.com/da9cg37Cev— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) September 29, 2024