Quantitative Literary Analysis of the Works of Aphra Behn: Words of Passion

Aphra Behn (1640–1689) was a prolific and popular playwright, poet, novelist, translator, and has a fascinating and extensive corpus of literature that plays a key role in literary history. Words of Passion: A Quantitative Literary Analysis of the Works of Aphra Behn examines the author's use of words in terms of frequencies and distributions and stacks the words in context to read Behn's word usage synchronically. It brings digital humanities into literary criticism to enhance our understanding and appreciation of literature beyond what is possible in diachronic reading and scholarship.

Format: Hardback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 09 May 2023
Publisher: Anthem Press

Aphra Behn ({PHONE}), a prolific and celebrated playwright, poet, novelist, translator, and literary figure, leaves behind an extensive and captivating body of work that holds a significant place in the annals of literary history. Words of Passion: A Quantitative Literary Analysis of the Works of Aphra Behn delves into the depths of Behn's literary oeuvre, offering a groundbreaking analysis that has yet to be replicated by any other book. This comprehensive study examines the author's use of words in terms of their frequencies and distributions, carefully contextualizing them to read Behn's word usage synchronically. By employing this experimental methodology, the book pioneers the integration of digital humanities into literary criticism, expanding our understanding and appreciation of literature beyond the limitations of traditional diachronic reading and scholarship that may be less supported by digital tools. The empirical approach works in tandem with existing scholarship to unravel Behn's unique language of love and extreme passions, which permeate across her diverse genres.

Aphra Behn, born in 1640, was a remarkable figure in the world of literature. She excelled as a playwright, poet, novelist, translator, and more, leaving an indelible mark on the literary landscape.

Her literary corpus is vast and diverse, encompassing a wide range of genres and styles. From her theatrical plays to her poetry and prose, Behn's works explored the complexities of human emotions, societal norms, and gender roles. Her writing was characterized by her sharp wit, vivid imagery, and ability to capture the essence of human experiences.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Behn's literary career is her ability to navigate the boundaries between different genres. She was a pioneer in the hybridization of literature, seamlessly blending drama, poetry, and prose to create works that were both entertaining and thought-provoking. Her plays, in particular, were known for their complex characters, witty dialogue, and exploration of gender roles and societal expectations.

Words of Passion: A Quantitative Literary Analysis of the Works of Aphra Behn is a groundbreaking work that seeks to shed new light on Behn's literary output. By analyzing her use of words in terms of frequencies and distributions, the book provides a fresh perspective on Behn's word usage and its significance in her works.

Through the use of digital humanities techniques, the book brings a new level of insight to literary criticism. It allows scholars to explore Behn's writing synchronically, considering the context in which her words were used and the broader literary trends of her time. This approach enhances our understanding of Behn's literary genius and her contribution to the development of English literature.

One of the key findings of Words of Passion is the author's use of specific words and phrases that evoke strong emotions and convey a sense of passion. Behn was particularly skilled at using imagery and metaphor to create vivid and memorable scenes, and her use of words played a crucial role in shaping the emotional impact of her works.

For example, Behn frequently employed the word "love" to describe intense romantic relationships, but she also used it to convey a broader sense of passion and devotion. She explored the complexities of love, from its euphoric highs to its painful lows, and her writing often reflected the messy and complicated nature of human emotions.

In addition to her exploration of love, Behn was also known for her portrayal of extreme passions and desires. Her characters often faced intense challenges and conflicts, driven by their own desires and obsessions. Behn's writing was characterized by a sense of urgency and intensity, as her characters struggled to navigate the treacherous waters of their own desires and the expectations of society.

Words of Passion: A Quantitative Literary Analysis of the Works of Aphra Behn is a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of English literature. It offers a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of Behn's literary output, providing new insights into her creative process and her contribution to the development of English literature.

Through its innovative approach, the book encourages us to re-examine our understanding of literature and to appreciate the richness and complexity of the works that have shaped our cultural heritage. It is a testament to the power of digital humanities and its ability to transform our understanding of the past.

In conclusion, Aphra Behn was a remarkable literary figure who left an indelible mark on the world of literature. Her extensive and diverse body of work explores the complexities of human emotions, societal norms, and gender roles, and her ability to navigate different genres is a testament to her literary genius. Words of Passion: A Quantitative Literary Analysis of the Works of Aphra Behn offers a groundbreaking perspective on Behn's literary output, using digital humanities techniques to shed new light on her word usage and its significance in her works.

Weight: 604g
Dimension: 159 x 237 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839982002