During the 17th century, the art of writing was like uncharted waters for women, into which most who ventured failed pathetically. Regardless of their quality, publications written by women were generally ridiculed by their male suitors. However, a handful of women have defied common norms and succeeded; one of them was Aprha Behn. Virgina Wolf said of Behn: "All women together should drop flowers on Aphra Behn's grave, because she earned them the right to speak." » Although she was a woman of exceptional accomplishments, one of her publications really shines. Oroonoko (1688), the epic tale of a heroic black slave, has often been called the first modern novel in that it exhibits qualities completely incomparable for the 17th century. Even if we don't realize it, several aspects contribute harmoniously to the construction of the modern novel. . According to Ian Watt, three of these are distinctiveness, unity of design and rejection of traditional plots. A novel should focus on specific characters and should take place in a distinct time frame. Additionally, a novel must have a plot different from others of the time. A common idea or theme should also govern the work. All these characteristics are clearly expressed in Oroonoko. What's special, says Watt, is "the amount of attention it [the novel] usually pays both to the individualism of its characters and to the detailed presentation of their surroundings." Behn focuses on only a few main characters; they are Oroonoko (Caesar), the narrator who is a white mistress, and Imoinda, Oroonoko's love interest. The writer strives to brilliantly paint a picture of Oroonoko for readers, ...... middle of paper ......el - particularity, unity of design and rejection of traditional plots. Behn's success in writing Oroonoko both paved the way for future women writers and set an example for would-be novelists. Truly, his passionate tale of an abused slave who died for freedom will forever be revered and cherished as the first modern novel. Works cited by Behn, Aphra and Janet Todd. Oroonoko, The Rover and other works. England: Penguin Classics, 1992. Hunter, Paul J. “Before the Novels.” The Aphra Behn page. July 22, 1999. Watt, Ian. "The beginnings of the English novel". The Aphra Behn page. July 19, 1999. Wolf, Virginia. “A room of one’s own.” The Virginia Wolf Society of Great Britain. July 22 1999.