Which king returned to the English throne after the period of Puritan rule, which is the historical context for "The Rover"? A) Charles II B) James I C) William III D) George I
Answer (1)
The correct answer is A) Charles II.
After the period of Puritan rule in England, known as the Commonwealth under Oliver Cromwell and later his son Richard Cromwell, the monarchy was restored. This period of restoration is known historically as the English Restoration.
Charles II was invited to return to England from his exile in Europe, and he was restored to the throne in 1660. This marked the end of the republican rule following the English Civil War, during which his father, Charles I, had been executed.
The period in which Charles II ruled after his restoration is characterized by the re-establishment of the monarchy and is often associated with a cultural revival that saw advancements in arts and science. It is also the historical context for many literary works, including 'The Rover' by Aphra Behn, which reflects the complexities and vibrancy of this transformative period in English history.
Charles II's return to the throne was a significant moment because it marked a shift from the strict Puritanical rule back to a monarchy that was more tolerant of public revelry and arts, which had been suppressed under Puritan rule. This transition had lasting impacts on English society and culture.
