Oroonoko Explored
English Surinam
Even though it does not take center stage in the novel, Behn references much of the socio-political environment of Surinam as it existed in the 1660s. These references, along with the inclusion of real historical figures that took part in the work, all contribute towards her goal to persuade readers in the authenticity of her story. Even though the account of Oroonoko is false, her understanding of the complex political environment of Surinam reflects either a real firsthand account of Surinam or a knowledge founded on reliable sources. For example, let us examines some of the historical figures she introduces into the story. John Trefry was indeed the overseer of St. John’s Hill during the 1660s, William Byam was both the deputy governor and Lieutenant General of Surinam though 1667, and Major James Bannister later succeeded Byam in the same post. Behn also introduces the gallant Colonel George Martin, who is unsurprisingly a friend to Caesar, as they share many of the same honorable qualities.
"A Description of the Colony of Surinam in Guiana" (1667)
All four of these men did indeed exist, and the tensions between Trefry and Byman were real. Trefry was an agent for the absentee Governor Willoughby, having authority over the plantations at Parham and St. John’s Hill that was somehow outside the jurisdiction of the deputy governor who had authority over the rest of the island. Also, Colonel Martin (historically referred to as Captain Martin), was a well-known republican, and it seems unlikely that Behn would unnecessary praise a republican captain when she was a staunch royalist (Rogers 10-12). Finally, her familiarity with the history of Surinam continues when she references the death of Governor Willoughby and the loss of the island to the Dutch in 1667, arguing with what appears to be genuine familiarity and sadness that the English lost the island following their war with the Dutch. The English, however, did gain New Amsterdam in the treaty, now known as New York, which led to be a very beneficial trade for her country. In fact, one of the few inaccuracies found is Behn’s reference that the narrator’s father was to be the new Lieutenant General of Surinam (who died before he could take his post), even though there is no documentation to support that this was planned. It does provide the narrator, however, with a position of high social status while yet being powerless to aid Oroonoko in any substantial way.