Oroonoko

What is the significance of Oroonoko's slave name?

Aphra Behn- Oroonoko

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The slave name chosen for Oroonoko is Caesar, the name of the Roman emperor ruler who was betrayed by his friends when he was stabbed on the steps of the Roman Senate. At the end of the work, the allusion to Julius Caesar will become clearer when Oroonoko is literally cut to death by those who promised to free him. Behn utilizes this name also to further embed the idea of Oroonoko as a royal and mighty leader. Furthermore, upon his arrival in Surinam, Oroonoko finds himself separated from the African friends he was taken hostage with on the slave ship. Now he finds himself alienated from all that is familiar.

Source(s)

http://www.gradesaver.com/oroonoko/study-guide/section3/