First published in 1724, Roxana is unique in that it is Defoe’s last novel and the only one that deals with the moral degradation of the main character, rather than her success (as one might see in his other novels). Roxana is supposed to be a fictional representation of Nell Gwyn, the long-time mistress of Charles II of England and Scotland. Called “pretty, witty Nell” by Samuel Pepys, she has long been regarded as a living embodiment of the spirit of Restoration England and has come to be considered a folk heroine, with a story echoing the rags-to-royalty tale of Cinderella. Defoe’s illustration of Nell is rather less flattering, however.