1. Societal Constraints on Women Writers:
* Gender Roles: In 17th-century England, women were largely confined to domestic roles, and writing was considered a "masculine" pursuit. Publishing under her own name would have challenged these societal norms and risked social ostracism.
* Lack of Recognition: Women writers were often dismissed or underestimated, and their work was not taken as seriously as that of their male counterparts. Publishing anonymously allowed Behn to potentially receive more attention and respect for her writing.
* Financial Independence: Women in this era had limited financial independence, and publishing could be a way for Behn to earn a living, even if it meant doing so under a pseudonym.
2. Literary Conventions of the Time:
* Anonymity was Common: Many playwrights of the era, both male and female, published anonymously, sometimes even using multiple pseudonyms. This was partly due to the competitive nature of the theatrical world, where writers sought to protect their work from plagiarism and rivalries.
* The "Libertine" Persona: Some of Behn's plays dealt with themes of sexual freedom and female agency, which could have been seen as scandalous for a woman to openly endorse. Using a pseudonym allowed her to explore these topics without facing direct criticism for her views.
3. Behn's Personal Circumstances:
* Financial Struggles: Behn faced financial difficulties throughout her life, and publishing under her own name might have made her vulnerable to social pressures and attempts to exploit her situation.
* Political Affiliations: Behn was a loyal supporter of the monarchy and had been involved in political intrigue. Publishing anonymously might have been a way to protect herself from potential political repercussions.
Ultimately, Behn's decision to publish anonymously was a strategic move driven by a complex interplay of societal expectations, literary conventions, and her own personal circumstances. She recognized the limitations placed on women writers of her time and chose to use anonymity as a tool to navigate those constraints and achieve recognition for her work.