Breaking the Chains: Desire and Freedom in The Rover (Chapter 2)
In a world that seeks to silence them, these women dare to rewrite their own stories.
Imagine a world where desire is silenced, where love is dictated by societal rules, and where a woman's longing is considered a whisper rather than a roar. Yet, amidst these constraints, some dare to defy—bold, cunning, and unapologetically passionate. In a time when men enjoyed freedoms women could only dream of, what happens when women refuse to be mere spectators in their own love stories?
One of the most impactful facts is that women strive to find their love and to use their sexuality. They are quite determined women to find their love of life by themselves. In the 17th century, when men who had extramarital affairs were seen as normal, society controlled women’s sexuality strictly. Women are expected not to talk about their sexual desire. They alluded to their personal preference about sexuality; they were seen as immoral. So many women had to hide their desires due to fear of society’s judgment. Opposite to that, women are bold about sexual affairs with men in the play. For instance, Hellena said ‘Nay I’m resolved to provide myself this carnival if there be e’er a handsome fellow of my humor above ground, tho I ask first.’ (Behn, 1677, p. 5) She rejected quietness about personal preference, desire, and love. She confidently expresses her desire and thoughts about a relationship contrary to 17th-century norms. Before that, she said, ‘Faith no, Sister; and that which makes me long to know whether you love Belvile is because I hope he has some mad Companion or other that will spoil my devotion.' In that quotation, she criticizes the strict attitude of her family about hiding her sexuality and desire. In addition, Lucetta manipulates Blunt with her sexuality and robs him of his possessions. It can be an example of an intelligent and confident woman who is the opposite of a 17th-century oppressed and passive woman. In short, even though they are suppressed, women try to express their feelings and desires in the play.
Despite the constraints of the 17th century, the women in the play refuse to be silent. They challenge expectations, embrace their desires, and take control of their narratives. Whether through bold declarations of love or cunning manipulation, they break free from the passive roles imposed upon them. In a world that seeks to suppress them, they choose to be heard—fearless, determined, and unashamed.