Oroonoko

Novel | Aphra Behn
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How did Imoinda die? 

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How did Imoinda die?

In “Oroonoko” (1688) by Aphra Behn (1640-1689), Imoinda’s death is very sad and emotional. Imoinda is a young African woman. Oroonoko and Imoinda love each other deeply. They secretly get married in Africa. But both are captured and taken as slaves to Suriname. Oroonoko himself kills Imoinda to save her from the torture of the slavery system.

Life in Slavery: In Suriname, Oroonoko and Imoinda live together as slaves. The deputy governor, Byam, is cruel. Even though Imoinda is married, Byam plans to take her for himself. Moreover, the white colonists repeatedly lie to Oroonoko and make fake promises of freedom.

Oroonoko’s Revolt: Oroonoko sees the suffering of the slaves and decides to fight for freedom. He plans a revolt with the other slaves. He hopes to live freely with Imoinda. He gives a speech to fellow slaves:

“My dear friends

and fellow-sufferers, should we be slaves to an unknown people?”

Oroonoko thinks they should not just accept the white colonists as their masters. But the revolt fails. Oroonoko knows he will be killed soon, and Imoinda will suffer even more if left alone. She may be tortured brutally.

Imoinda’s Death: To protect Imoinda from the inhuman slavery and torture, they both agree that Oroonoko will kill her. Imoinda accepts her death bravely. Oroonoko kills her with deep sadness, and she dies in his arms.

In conclusion, Imoinda’s death shows the cruelty of slavery and the destruction caused by oppression. Her death adds deep emotion to the novel and shows how slavery destroys families and love.

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Aphra Behn
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