In fact, many believe that the story of "Oroonoko" is a retelling of the biblical scriptures - particularly the crucifixion of Christ - based on events of the Surinam native culture. ... The fundamental comparison is that Oroonoko is an African prince who was sent away to a slave, much like Jesus was God's beloved Son who was sent to live among the ruins of mankind. ... The exotic setting represents an ideal world, exemplifying the theory that the Western culture was superior to that of the Surinam natives. ...