In the following essay, Diamond examines the appropriation of females in The Rover and, for Behn, in English society during her time.
Where the dream is at its most exalted, the commodity is
closest to hand.
—Theodor Adorno, In Search of Wagner
Near the end of act 2 of The Rover, after the wealthy virgins and hungry gallants have been introduced, and the reader-spectator is made aware that comic symmetry is pressing toward chase and final reward, mention is made of a beautiful courtesan whom the gallants, including the affianced ones, are trying to impress. Angellica Bianca would seem to be a supplement to the intrigue plot—a supplement since one need not intrigue to visit a whore. Yet before the virgins are rewarded with the husbands they desire, they will traverse this.....
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