Aphra Behn's The Rover was written in England during what is known as the Restoration Period. The themes of the play address many social and cultural issues of the time. These themes are marriage and prostitution, and the general plight of women.
             Women in 17th century Europe had very few options in marriage. They would not be allowed to initiate relations with men. Generally a women's parents had the final choice about whom she would marry. A family would often use a marriage to make political or business alliances, ignoring their daughter's interests. The bride's family commonly paid a dowry to the groom's family also. Most families would devote their money for dowry in the eldest daughter, enabling her to marry into the best family possible. The younger daughters often were sent to a convent. This was less expensive, but at the same time giving to the church. Prostitution became a feasible option, for poorer families.
             In The Rover, Aphra Behn portrays the usual pattern of options available to women in the 17th century. As the oldest daughter, Florinda is to be married to a man that her father has chosen. Hellena , a modern women for the time, believes that Florinda is being "used" for marriage and describes the loveless marriage-bed that lies ahead for her when she marries Don Vincentio. But, since Florinda and Hellena's father is away, her brother has influence over Florinda and has decides that his best friend shall be her mate. Hellena is sent to a convent.. Neither sister wants to obey Pedro's wishes, yet they have no choice but to try to enjoy a day and night of freedom before their fates are sealed. It is then that they meet their true loves, and when they do, they are wearing masks. While their identities are not known they are able to act freely. At this time women of class and wealth could not flirt with men.
             For a women whose family could not afford to pay a dowry, prostitutio...