The central conflict arises from the intersection of colonial exploitation, personal honor, and the tragic displacement of individuals within the rigid social hierarchies of the 17th century. The protagonist, Oroonoko, an African prince enslaved in Surinam, seeks to reclaim his dignity and freedom against the backdrop of colonial cruelty and betrayal. Behn utilizes a first-person narrative framework that oscillates between observational reportage and dramatic storytelling, placing the reader in the position of a witness to the unfolding moral decay of the colonial enterprise. The narrative is constrained by the historical realities of the slave trade and the rigid gender and class expectations of the Restoration period.

Discussion often centers on Behn's role as a pioneer of the English novel and her complex portrayal of race and slavery. Readers frequently highlight the stark contrast between the romanticized elements of her prose and the brutal realities of the historical events she depicts. Critics often examine how her work reflects the political tensions of the Restoration era while simultaneously challenging contemporary literary conventions. The collection is noted for its breadth, allowing readers to observe the evolution of Behn's voice across various genres and thematic concerns. Scholars emphasize that these texts remain essential for understanding the development of early modern narrative techniques.