Othello context Flashcards
(26 cards)
When was Othello written?
Othello was written in 1603, during Shakespeare’s Great Tragic Period, in the same period that Shakespeare wrote Hamlet, Macbeth and King Lear
What was theatre like in the Elizabethan era?
Elizabeth I was a patron of theatre and theatre performances were a popular form of entertainment
What was the Renaissance era?
The Renaissance was a period where Latin and Ancient Greek philosophies flourished, particularly in literature and culture
Where does the original story of Othello come from?
Gli Hecatommithi by Cinthio (a collection of Italian short stories)
Why are the names of the characters significant in Cinthio’s original story?
Disdemona was the only named character in Cinthio’s story, highlighting her central importance to the plot as well as the significance of status and reputation as the other characters were referred to through their rank “ensign” and “moor”
What changes did Shakespeare make to Iago’s character from the original story?
The ensign is explicitly evil, whereas Iago is more complex and morally ambiguous. Shakespeare also created the character of Roderigo to show Iago’s influence
Which wedding was Othello performed at?
Othello was performed in 1612 at the wedding of Princess Elizabeth (James I’s daughter) showing how it was popularly received
Which white men played the character of Othello?
Richard Burbage and Edmund Kean played the role in a wig and black makeup
Which production of Othello was transposed into an Indian setting and why?
Omkara (2006) directed by Vishal Bhardwaj explored religious differences and the caste system
Which production of Othello emphasised themes of otherness?
Patrick Stewart played the role of Othello in 1997 with an all-black cast
Why were the English fascinated with the Venetian government?
Venice was an example of a contemporary republican government. This fascinated the Renaissance audience because the Tudor era was ending and Elizabeth I had no heir. Therefore, the future of the country was uncertain and people became interested in potential alternative forms of rule
What was the reputation of Venice?
Venice had a reputation as a cosmopolitan and diverse city that was bustling with trade and opportunity. It was also known for prostitution and sexual freedom
Why is the location of Venice significant?
Venice was geographically familiar as it was situated in Europe, but had close ties with North Africa and the Middle East - seen as being on the edge of civilisation
What is geohumuralism?
A concept that linked a person’s subconscious to their geographical origin and was used to justify white-supremist ideals. For example, warmer countries were believed to produce more hot-headed and aggressive people.
Why is the location of Cyprus significant?
The majority of the play’s action is set in Cyprus, at a war outpost. This setting is further removed from the English audience, both symbolically and geographically. The further the narrative moves from Western Europe, the more civilisation and honour breakdown
Which actors have played the role of Othello as gay?
Laurence Oliver, David Suchet and Sir Ian McKellen have all played the role of Iago as gay
From a Freudian lens, how could Iago and Othello’s relationship be viewed?
It could be interpreted that Iago’s cruel meddling in Othello’s life is due to repressed and unrequited homosexual desire for Othello.
What is an example of another Moor within Shakespeare’s work?
Aaron in Titus Andronicus
How does Othello differ from Aaron in Titus Andronicus?
The general stereotypes of Moors is that they were pure evil and threatened the moral integrity of society. Aaron in Titus Andronicus is an extreme characterisation which was a typical depiction of a Moor on an Elizabethan stage, whereas Othello initially subverts this stereotype
What is the religious context of Othello?
Othello is set against the backdrop of religious conflict between Muslims and Christians. This conflict is particularly relevant as Othello converted to Christianity from Islam which is another reminder of his otherness. Religiously fuelled hatred and Othello’s Muslim background could explain the Venetian’s distrust of him
How is the Great Chain of Being relevant to the plot?
The Great Chain of Being was a hierarchical structure that was grounded in religion. Iago comparing Othello to an animal is particularly derogatory in this context. This also explains Iago’s downfall as he disturbed this hierarchy by playing God
How does Othello’s fall from grace mirror Venice’s?
In the 16th century, Venice had a large population of roughly 175,000 people but due to a plague killing 50,000 people and losses in war, it began to lose power.
What was the class system in Venice?
Venice had a more rigid class system than England, the nobility and the common people were distinctly separated and evidence of class envy is seen through Iago
How is Greek mythology relevant to the setting?
Aphrodite (the Goddess of Love) was believed to have risen from the sea on the west coast of Cyprus near Paphos. Therefore, Cyprus would have been expected to be a romantic setting
