The Rover by Aphra Behn

Questions
1. Why is the opening scene of The Rover unusual for a Restoration comedy?

2. Who does Willmore represent historically? What traits do the two share?

3. What is happening in Naples during the play? What is traditional for that event?

4. How does Florinda reveal herself to Belvile?

5. Why does Willmore find himself attracted to Hellena?

Answers
1. The opening scene begins with two women discussing ways to satisfy their desires. This is unusual because in most plays men were the center of the action and women did not express desires.

2. Willmore, the banished cavalier, represents Charles II, the recently reinstated King of England. Charles II was well known for his affairs with women and...