The Ten Pleasures of Marriage, relating all the delights and contentments that are mask'd under the bands of matrimony

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Overview

"The Ten Pleasures of Marriage, relating all the delights and contentments that are mask'd under the bands of matrimony" is a satirical take on traditional views surrounding marriage in 17th century England. It has now been discovered that it was written by Aphra Bens under the guise of a different name at the time. Bens, often considered the first female playwright in English literature, offers a feisty take on what marriage entails to her readers. This book was published in 1682 in London and now rests in the University of Pennsylvania's rare books collection.

Historical Context

17th Century Europe

17th Century England

Views on Marriage in 17th Century London

Contextual Analysis