Context Flashcards
(14 cards)
What was the status of women in marriage during the Elizabethan period?
Women were subordinate and became their husbands’ property.
What is a dowry and when was it relevant?
A dowry was a payment made to the husband, relevant until the mid-20th century.
What was Venice known for in the context of freedom?
Venice was seen as a place of sexual freedom.
What significant change occurred in wedding vows in 1922?
The word ‘obey’ was removed from wedding vows.
What was unique about Venice for a Shakespearean audience?
Venice was a rare example of a contemporary republican government.
What was the public interest in governance during the Elizabethan period?
There was interest in alternative forms of rule due to the absence of heiresses.
What characterized the population of Venice?
Venice was known for its diversity and variety of different backgrounds.
How was Venice perceived in terms of freedom?
It was seen as a place of exotic and dangerous freedom, alluring yet mystical.
How is the attitude towards Othello reflected in the play?
Characters use derogatory language but are intrigued by his backstory.
What does Cyprus represent in the context of civilization?
Cyprus symbolizes an even more unknown breakdown of civilization and order.
What complaint did Queen Elizabeth have regarding black people in England?
She complained about the increasing number of black people living in England around 1596.
What motion was passed in 1601 regarding black people?
A motion allowing the deportation of black people was passed.
What does ‘blackness’ signify in Othello?
It is connected not just to skin color but also to ideas of dark and evil nature.
How is Othello characterized by most critics?
Othello is characterized as ‘the other.’
