Aphra Behn (1640-1689) was an English playwright, poet, and novelist, recognized as one of the first professional female writers in England. She is best known for her play The Rover, which showcases her talent for comedy and complex characters. Behn's work often explored themes of love, gender, and politics, reflecting the social issues of her time. In addition to her plays, Behn wrote novels, including Oroonoko, a story about an African prince and the horrors of slavery. Her contributions to literature paved the way for future female authors, making her a significant figure in the history of English literature.